What defines an instrumentality likely to cause death or great bodily harm?

An instrumentality likely to cause death or great bodily harm is defined as a dangerous weapon. This classification is rooted in the legal and law enforcement framework, which identifies certain items as having the potential to inflict serious injury or fatality when used against a person. Dangerous weapons are specifically designed or can be used to cause injury, so they pose a significant risk in violent situations.

In contrast, a protected tool does not typically fall into the category of being likely to cause great bodily harm because these tools are often designed for non-violent purposes and may have legal protections surrounding their use. An unauthorized tool also does not fit because its legality or possession does not inherently imply danger; it simply indicates that the tool lacks the appropriate permission for use. Lastly, a harmless item is clearly not considered an instrumentality likely to cause death or great bodily harm, as it is defined by its inability to inflict injury. Thus, the identification of a dangerous weapon as the correct answer highlights its potential risk and the role it plays in law enforcement considerations regarding the use of force and public safety.