No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as “prohibited weapons” under Maryland’s Public Safety Code § 4-101, rendering them illegal to possess, manufacture, transport, or use. The Maryland State Police Firearms Registration Unit enforces these restrictions, with violations punishable as misdemeanors carrying up to 3 years imprisonment and/or $1,000 fines. Local jurisdictions, including Baltimore City and Montgomery County, have further tightened enforcement, aligning with 2026 statewide compliance directives targeting bladed and projectile weapons.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Maryland
- Prohibited Weapon Classification: Shuriken fall under Md. Code Ann., Pub. Safety § 4-101(a)(2), explicitly banning “any weapon of like kind” to throwing stars, including modified or ornamental variants. Possession without a valid permit (e.g., for historical reenactments) is unlawful.
- Strict Local Enforcement: Baltimore City’s Police Department and Montgomery County’s Code Enforcement Unit conduct periodic inspections of martial arts supply stores and online retailers, seizing inventory under municipal ordinances. Recent 2026 guidance from the Maryland Chiefs of Police Association mandates enhanced reporting of prohibited weapons seizures.
- Transportation and Use Restrictions: Transporting shuriken across state lines into Maryland, even for personal collection, requires prior approval from the Maryland State Police Licensing Division. Public display or use in any context—including martial arts training—triggers immediate confiscation under § 4-105, with potential felony charges if intent to harm is inferred.