The crime of assault varies from state to state (and under federal law), but is generally defined as intentionally putting another person in reasonable apprehension or fear of an imminent (immediate) harmful or offensive contact. The crime of assault may be committed even if there is no physical contact, as the criminal physical contact constitutes the separate crime of battery.

The crime of assault with a deadly weapon (also known as aggravated assault) occurs when someone uses a deadly weapon (gun, knife, club, tire iron, brass knuckles, etc.) during an assault.

In Iowa, assault is defined under Iowa Code Section 708.1 as any act which is intended to cause pain or injury to, or which is intended to result in physical contact which will be insulting or offensive to another, coupled with the apparent ability to execute the act, or any act which is intended to place another in fear of immediate physical contact which will be painful, injurious, insulting, or offensive. Assault does not require physical contact or injury; the fear of harm is sufficient. Aggravated assault, or assault with a deadly weapon, is considered a more serious offense and is addressed under Iowa Code Section 708.2. This occurs when an individual commits an assault as defined above and uses a dangerous weapon or any other object that could inflict death or serious injury. Depending on the circumstances and the presence of specific intent to inflict a serious injury, the crime can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, with penalties varying accordingly. It's important to note that the definition of a 'deadly weapon' is not limited to firearms but includes any instrument or device designed primarily for use in inflicting death or injury, and when used in its designed manner is capable of inflicting death.