No, nunchucks are classified as “dangerous weapons” under Washington’s RCW 9.41.250, making their possession, manufacture, or sale illegal without a concealed pistol license (CPL) or other exempt authorization. Local law enforcement agencies, including the Seattle Police Department, enforce these restrictions, with penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony prosecution for repeat violations.
Key Regulations for Nunchucks in Washington
- Prohibition under RCW 9.41.250: Nunchucks are explicitly banned as “slungshots, sandbags, or other dangerous weapons,” with no exceptions for martial arts training.
- Local enforcement variances: While state law governs legality, municipal ordinances (e.g., Seattle Municipal Code 12A.10.010) may impose additional penalties for possession in public spaces.
- Exemptions require CPL: Only individuals with a valid concealed pistol license or those using nunchucks in approved martial arts schools (with prior written authorization) may possess them lawfully.
Recent 2026 legislative shifts, such as proposed amendments to RCW 9.41.250, aim to clarify ambiguities but have not yet legalized nunchucks. The Washington State Patrol’s Firearms Unit monitors compliance, and violations are adjudicated in district courts under Title 9 RCW. Martial arts practitioners must secure written exemptions from local authorities to avoid enforcement actions.