diff --git a/mods/mobs/api.lua b/mods/mobs/api.lua
index 86fc9663..d0525d60 100755
--- a/mods/mobs/api.lua
+++ b/mods/mobs/api.lua
@@ -1126,7 +1126,7 @@ end
 		on_punch = function(self, hitter, tflp, tool_capabilities, dir)
 			-- weapon wear
 			local weapon = hitter:get_wielded_item()
-			if weapon:get_definition().tool_capabilities ~= nil then
+			if weapon:get_definition().tool_capabilities ~= nil and weapon:get_definition().tool_capabilities.full_punch_interval ~= nil then
 				local wear = ( weapon:get_definition().tool_capabilities.full_punch_interval / 75 ) * 9000
 				weapon:add_wear(wear)
 				hitter:set_wielded_item(weapon)