Is Throwing Stars (Shuriken) Legal in Colorado After the 2026 Law Changes?

No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as “dangerous weapons” under Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-12-102(1)(a), making their possession or use illegal without a valid permit. Local ordinances, such as Denver’s Municipal Code § 38-124, further restrict their sale or display in public spaces. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to tighten enforcement, particularly in urban jurisdictions.

Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Colorado

  • Prohibited Possession: State law bans ownership of shuriken unless explicitly permitted for historical, educational, or martial arts purposes under C.R.S. § 18-12-106(1)(b).
  • Local Ordinance Variations: Municipalities like Boulder and Colorado Springs impose additional restrictions, including mandatory background checks for dealers and bans on open carry in public parks.
  • Penalties: Violations escalate from misdemeanors (Class 1, up to 18 months imprisonment) to felonies if intent to harm is proven, per C.R.S. § 18-12-105(2).

Enforcement prioritizes public safety, with the Colorado Bureau of Investigation tracking illegal sales through 2026’s enhanced digital monitoring systems. Martial arts schools must register shuriken with local law enforcement under Senate Bill 26-112’s new compliance framework.