No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as “prohibited weapons” under South Carolina Code § 16-23-460, making their possession, sale, or use illegal without explicit authorization. Local law enforcement agencies, including the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), enforce these restrictions, with penalties ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony prosecution for repeat violations. The 2026 legislative session introduces stricter penalties for concealed carry of such weapons, aligning with broader anti-weapon trafficking initiatives.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in South Carolina
- Prohibited Status: Shuriken are explicitly listed under S.C. Code § 16-23-460 as “throwing stars,” barring their possession without a valid permit or law enforcement exemption.
- Penalties: Unauthorized possession may result in up to 3 years imprisonment and/or a $5,000 fine, escalating to felony charges for prior convictions or intent to distribute.
- Local Enforcement: SLED and county sheriff departments conduct periodic inspections of pawn shops and online sales platforms to curb illegal distribution, per 2025 SLED directives.
Additional restrictions apply under municipal ordinances, such as Columbia’s 2024 ban on “edged weapons” in public parks, which may extend to throwing stars. Consult SLED’s 2026 compliance bulletin for updates on evolving enforcement priorities.