Know your laws threatening someone with physical violence while brandishing a firearm is a crime,such as brandishing a weapon or assault with a firearm, and is typically a serious offense. Laws vary by state, but these actions are generally defined as drawing or displaying a deadly weapon in a rude, angry, or threatening manner in the presence of another person. Common criminal charges Brandishing a weapon: This is a crime for drawing or exhibiting a deadly weapon in a rude, angry, or threatenin