The bill lifts the state ban on carrying brass knuckles, kitty key chains, clubs and other self defense items in public.

AUSTIN, Texas — Governor Greg Abbott’s signature gave HB 446 its final okay earlier this year.

The bill, authored by Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, lifts the state ban on carrying brass knuckles, kitty key chains, clubs and other self defense items in public starting September 1, 2019.

Houston self-defense experts at Krav Maga Houston describe the newly legal items ‘force equalizers.’

“It’s something you can use against a larger opponent potentially to make you stronger in the process,” said Krav Maga Houston’s Trea Drake.

The self defense equalizers are an advantage that House Bill 446 advocates. Moody has called the bill’s passage ‘another step toward getting rid of antiquated laws regarding weapons.’

However, Drake warns people looking to start carrying the weapons.

“People have to understand there are legal implications. Just because it’s legal now to carry brass knuckles,” said Drake. “That doesn’t mean you can use it in every situation you find yourself in.”

The Texas Department of Public Safety says 93 people were convicted for violating the brass knuckle ban in 2017.