What qualifies as a 'deadly weapon' under the law?

A 'deadly weapon' under the law is defined as any item that is specifically intended for the purpose of inflicting death or serious bodily injury. This definition encompasses a wide range of objects that, while not inherently dangerous or lethal in everyday contexts, can cause significant harm when used with the intention of doing so. The emphasis on intent is crucial, as it distinguishes between items that can be lethal depending on their use and those that are not meant to cause injury at all.

In contrast, the notion that only firearms qualify as deadly weapons is too narrow and does not reflect the broader legal interpretation. Additionally, while some items may indeed be deemed dangerous in public spaces, this classification does not necessarily relate to their capacity to cause death or serious injury, nor does it account for the intent behind their use. Lastly, tools used in self-defense can sometimes be classified as deadly weapons if used in a way that demonstrates intent to inflict significant harm, but the core definition rests on the object's intended purpose for inflicting serious injury or death.

Thus, the comprehensive understanding of what constitutes a 'deadly weapon' rightly encompasses any item intended for such harmful use, making it the most accurate choice.