What is the legal definition of a “dangerous weapon”?

In South Carolina, a “dangerous weapon” is defined as any item that is intended to inflict harm or have the potential to inflict serious physical injury to another person. Examples of dangerous weapons that would be legally considered as such include automatic and semi-automatic firearms, explosives, knives with blades longer than two inches, and metal knuckles. Additionally, if an object is used in a manner that makes it reasonably capable of producing death or serious physical injury, then it can also be considered a dangerous weapon. In South Carolina, if a person is convicted of a violent crime and uses or displays a dangerous weapon during the commission of that crime, then the sentence could be increased and/or additional charges may be imposed. The meaning of “dangerous weapon” can also mean that a person is convicted of a greater crime if the weapon used was classified as a “dangerous weapon.” It is important to note that just because an item can be classified as a dangerous weapon does not mean that it will be considered one in court. In some cases, an item may be classified as a dangerous weapon, but if the court determines that it was used in a manner that did not pose any risk of harm or serious injury to another person then the court may decide to classify the item as a non-dangerous weapon.

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What is the legal definition of a “dangerous weapon”?

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