Aluminum Knuckles

Aluminum knuckles, along with brass knuckles, have a long and mixed history of use as a weapon. There are early examples of knuckle duster-type weapons in many different cultures. Modern incarnations, which are considered to be dangerous concealed weapons, are illegal in many states and cities.

One example of a predecessor to modern aluminum knuckles is the Ku'eku'e Lima Lei-o-mano, which is a Lua weapon of Hawaii. Although the materials are different, the Ku'eku'e Lima Lei-o-mano bears an amazing resemblance to the Mark I knife, which was popular with soldiers during the First World War. Both feature a spiked finger guard and blade, and can be used both offensively and defensively in a variety of ways.

The Evolution of Knucks

Modern aluminum knuckles, like brass knuckles, have separate guards for each finger. They also feature curved backs, which allow them to fit comfortably into the palm of the user's hand. Most contemporary designs have dropped the spiked guard of both the Mark I and the Ku'eku'e Lima Lei-o-mano in favor of a more blunt design.

The main difference between knucks made from aluminum and knucks crafted from brass (which, in some cases, is actually steel) is the weight. Aluminum knucks are much lighter, but can still be just as effective. They are also generally less expensive than brass knuckles.