What qualifies as a deadly weapon according to PC 1.07(a)(17)?

According to PC 1.07(a)(17), a deadly weapon is defined as anything designed, made, or adapted for the purpose of inflicting death or serious bodily injury. It includes not just firearms, but also other items that can be used in a manner to cause harm. Firearms are explicitly recognized as deadly weapons due to their primary function of causing injury or death through their design and capability.

While some of the other items listed can potentially cause harm, they may not universally meet the criteria as a deadly weapon under the law. For example, a vehicle can be considered a deadly weapon when used in a manner that can cause serious bodily injury or death, but its classification depends on the intent and circumstances surrounding its use. Similarly, a plastic object or a cooking knife could potentially be used to injure someone, but they do not have the inherent characteristics or societal recognition as deadly weapons without additional context. Therefore, firearms stand out as the most clear and direct example of a deadly weapon as outlined in the law.