Kentucky Private Investigator Practice Test

Which of the following is considered a deadly weapon under KRS 500.080?

1. Ordinary pocket knife

2. Weapon of mass destruction

3. Baseball bat

4. Handgun

The correct answer is: Weapon of mass destruction

The designation of a "deadly weapon" under KRS 500.080 encompasses a variety of items that can inflict serious harm or death. In this context, a weapon of mass destruction is unequivocally classified as a deadly weapon due to its potential for large-scale destruction and the indiscriminate harm it can cause to many individuals simultaneously. This classification is consistent with its intended use and the level of threat it poses to public safety. On the other hand, while other items like handguns, baseball bats, and even an ordinary pocket knife can potentially be used to harm someone, they don’t carry the same inherent destructive capabilities or intent associated with weapons of mass destruction. The key distinction here lies in the scale and method of harm; weapons of mass destruction encompass a significantly broader and more dangerous range of effects compared to personal weapons or tools.