Brass Knuckles

“Conduct in the fighting ring used to be pleasing unto Rondra. Two unarmed opponents fighting tooth and claw, as they say. But nowadays, instead of using bare fists, these Almadan and Tobrien swine wrap their knuckles in metal. Next time, I’ll wear spiked vambraces!”
— Alrik of Kilnground, rogue, 1036 FB

Brass knuckles are simple metal hoops worn over the fist while brawling. They are popular with street ruffians because they require no special technique or fighting style. Simply slip one on to increase the impact of any punch.

Despite their name, most brass knuckles are made from steel. Variants include woven loops of hard leather straps that are sometimes reinforced with pieces of horn or bone. Unlike regular brass knuckles, these are more glove-like and thus offer some protection to the hands. Though brass knuckles are relatively small, they can wound or incapacitate with just a few blows. Less scrupulous people add spikes or short blades, to further intimidate their enemies.

“When given a choice between using bare fists and using brass knuckles, choose brass knuckles.”

— Carolan Calavanti, Vinsaltan vagabond

Technique	Damage	P+T	AT/PA	Reach	Weight	Length	Cost	Complexity
Brawling	d6+1	AGI/STR 15	0/0	short	0.25 stn 0.5 lbs	10 hf/cm 4 inches	25 S	primitive