Since the late 1800s, brass knuckles have served as weapons in close-quarters combat and street fights.

In the early 20th century, they rose in popularity in underground bare-knuckle boxing and martial arts circuits.

Fist load weapons like brass knuckles quickly gained a reputation among brawlers for helping fighters dominate opponents in bar fights and street fights

Hence, they established themselves as formidable tools for self defense once and for all.

The Cracker - A Devastating Brass Knuckles Punching Technique

Known as "The Cracker", this technique involved delivering a powerful downward punch directly to the crown of the opponent's skull while wearing weighted brass knuckles.

Weighing 8 ounces, the solid brass amplified the striking force of each blow.

A precisely aimed Cracker punch to the head with weighted knuckles shattered protective headgear and transmitted concussive force straight to the vulnerable brain tissue, immediately causing knockouts.

The Legend of "One Punch Pat" in Underground Fighting

One brass knuckles fighter, nicknamed "One Punch Pat", was never seen throwing more than one solitary blow thanks to his trademark Cracker technique and tactical brass knuckles.

Eyewitnesses say Pat's opponents facing him in underground matches like street fights and bar room brawls would instantly collapse unconscious from the single downward strike to the skull.

His unbeaten streak and fearsome reputation grew to legendary proportions among those engaged in martial arts and boxing.

Why It Was Banned from Competitive Combat Sports

While The Cracker punch proved an effective street fighting and self defense technique, its lethality led to its prohibition from competitive fighting where headgear is worn.

A well-placed Cracker shot could too easily cause traumatic brain injuries or even death without protective gear on.

Officials banned it from organized sports like MMA to avoid serious and potentially fatal injuries from the one-hit technique.

Considering Using the Cracker Punch Today

For those still engaged in hand to hand combat situations, The Cracker punch remains a sure-fire method to end conflicts quickly before they turn deadly.

With the right aim and a set of weighted brass knuckles, this technique has been the holy grail of street fighters across the globe.

Just be aware of the legal risks when using such a potentially lethal self protection technique given certain state laws.

For more details on the history, use and legality of brass knuckles, check out our ultimate guide!

Ready to shop? Check out our list of top 5 brass knuckles on sale and upgrade your self-defense game!