These items are legally classified as ‘offensive weapons per se’ and include flick knives, kitchen knives, butterfly knives, pepper sprays, knuckle dusters and nunchucks
Those where objects are made for use for causing injury to the person.
The law recognises three categories of offensive weapon: What are the three types of offensive weapon in UK law? In order to enforce this, it creates a clear definition of an offensive weapon, which encompasses both conventional weapons and other articles carried by civilians for purposes of violence. Still in effect today, the Prevention of Crime Act 1953 was created to reduce violent crime by banning the possession of weapons for all civilians. What is the Prevention of Crime Act 1953? Possessing an offensive weapon in a public place is an offence contrary to section 1 of the Prevention of Crime Act 1953.
Possession of a firearm (both real and imitation).
The primary weapon offences can be summarised as: There are a number of different types of weapon offences under English law. Nick Titchener, of London Criminal Defence Solicitors, Lawtons, introduces this complex area of the law and explains the potential implications of a conviction. The maximum sentence which can be handed down in the magistrates’ court is 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine (for a single offence).Īt the Crown Court, the maximum sentence is four years imprisonment and/or a fine. The possession of an offensive weapon is an extremely serious offence which normally carries a term of imprisonment. Have you been accused of committing a weapon offence? What are the possible consequences of a conviction under UK law?