It’s kind of wild how something you see as an everyday, hobby or self defense item can be treated as a weapon depending on where you live. Some states have laws that see some normal household, collectible or self defense objects as possession of dangerous weapons. So here are 13 items that some states classify as weapons, even though you may be enthusiastic about your collection.
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Throwing stars (shuriken)
Often sold as martial arts novelties, these are banned in many states because they’re considered concealed weapons. Even decorative versions can be illegal depending on the jurisdiction.
Kubotans (self-defense keychains)
These are small sticks attached to keyrings, used to apply pressure in self-defense. But they’re illegal weapons in some states because they can be used easily and discreetly to cause pain or injury.
Nunchaku (nunchucks)
The infamous martial arts weapon from so many cheesy old action films is also illegal to own in some states. New York was one of the states with a long-standing ban on these, but that ban was overturned only in 2018 after a legal battle.
Butterfly knives (balisongs)
These folding knives flip open with a quick wrist motion, which makes them flashy but also associated with concealed weapon laws. They’re banned or heavily restricted in states like California, New York, and Hawaii.
Tasers and stun guns
Though marketed as non-lethal self-defense tools, tasers and stun guns are regulated in several states and municipalities. Some require permits, while others ban civilian possession entirely.
Blackjacks and saps (weighted clubs)
These are small leather clubs weighted with lead. These old-fashioned self-defense tools are still considered dangerous weapons under many state laws. They’re outright banned in states like California.
Spring-assisted knives
These knives open quickly with the help of a spring mechanism and are sometimes mistaken for switchblades. Many states restrict them, even though they’re sold as everyday pocket knives.
Brass knuckles (metal or plastic)
Sold in the past as novelty self-defense keychains, brass knuckles can inflict serious injury and are banned in several states. They were illegal in Texas, although a law banning them was recently repealed in 2019. Plastic knuckles disguised as cat ears are also illegal in some places.
Expandable batons
Collapsible batons are easy to store in a bag or glove box, and some people carry them for protection. However, they’re classified as “dangerous clubs” in California and a handful of other states.
Slingshots
What we see as a harmless childhood toy could land you in jail in some states. In New Jersey, for example, it is illegal to have a slingshot in your bag.
Ice picks
Although most see them as common bar or kitchen tools, ice picks are treated as dangerous stabbing weapons in some states. In some cities, carrying an ice pick without a work-related purpose can result in arrest and charges.
Pepper spray (large canisters)
Most self-defense pepper sprays come in convenient personal-size cans, but larger canisters of bear spray or police-grade pepper spray are sometimes prohibited in some states. New York only allows personal-sized pepper sprays that have been purchased from a licensed seller.
Crossbows (pistol or compact models)
Crossbows can be small and discreet, making the hunting/hobby tool look like an illegal weapon to some. Pistol-style and compact crossbows are also banned in some states if carried in public outside of hunting season and without permits.
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