No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as “throwing knives” under Virginia Code § 18.2-311, making their possession or use without a concealed weapons permit illegal. Local ordinances in cities like Richmond and Arlington further restrict their display in public spaces, aligning with 2026 state enforcement priorities targeting non-firearm weapons.
Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Virginia
- Prohibited Possession: Virginia Code § 18.2-311 explicitly bans the carrying of “any dirk, bowie knife, switchblade knife, ballistic knife, machete, razor, slingshot, spring stick, throwing star, or other weapon of like kind” in public without a concealed weapons permit.
- Local Ordinance Overlaps: Municipalities such as Alexandria and Norfolk enforce additional restrictions on the display or sale of throwing stars in commercial settings, per local public safety codes enacted in 2024.
- Enforcement Trends: The Virginia State Police’s 2026 operational directives prioritize inspections of pawn shops and online marketplaces for illegal shuriken sales, with penalties including misdemeanor charges and confiscation.
Violations may result in Class 1 misdemeanor charges under § 18.2-308, carrying potential penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Exceptions exist for historical reenactments or martial arts demonstrations with prior approval from local law enforcement.