Is Throwing Stars (Shuriken) Legal in Utah After the 2026 Framework Overhaul?

No, throwing stars (shuriken) are classified as prohibited dangerous weapons under Utah Code § 76-10-501(1)(a), rendering their possession or use unlawful without explicit exceptions. The Utah Bureau of Criminal Identification enforces this statute, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Salt Lake City Police Department, actively monitor compliance. Recent 2026 legislative proposals aim to clarify penalties for concealed carry of such weapons, underscoring heightened scrutiny.

Key Regulations for Throwing Stars (Shuriken) in Utah

  • Prohibited Possession: Utah law explicitly bans the ownership, manufacture, or transfer of shuriken as dangerous weapons, with violations punishable as class B misdemeanors under § 76-10-501(2).
  • Exceptions for Historical/Replicas: Museums, licensed collectors, or historical reenactors may possess shuriken if registered with the Utah Division of Arts & Museums and used solely for educational or display purposes.
  • Enforcement & Penalties: Local prosecutors, such as those in Utah County, prioritize cases involving shuriken in public spaces, with potential enhancements for use in aggravating circumstances (e.g., during altercations or near schools).