Are Nunchucks Legal in Illinois?
Last checked Nov 13, 2026: No Illinois statute specifically bans owning nunchucks. Some Illinois cities have their own weapons rules, so check your local code.
Local rules vary
Last updated: · By Mason Martinez
The statutes
Owning and carrying: the short version
- There has been no statewide ban on owning nunchaku in Illinois.
- In People v. Tate (1979), an Illinois appeals court held that nunchaku-style karate sticks were not a "bludgeon" under the state's unlawful-use-of-weapons statute.
- Carrying them in public, especially concealed, can still be charged under general weapons laws, such as carrying a dangerous weapon with intent to use it unlawfully (720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(2)).
- Some Illinois cities have their own weapons rules, so check your local code. County codes were not reviewed.
Local rules
Some Illinois cities have their own weapons rules, so check your local code.
Buying and shipping
FAQ
Are nunchucks legal to own in Illinois?
No Illinois statute specifically prohibits owning nunchaku. Some Illinois cities have their own weapons rules, so check your local code.
Are nunchucks a "bludgeon" under Illinois law?
An Illinois appeals court held they were not, in People v. Tate (1979).
Can I carry nunchucks in public in Illinois?
Public carry, especially concealed, can still be charged under general weapons laws such as 720 ILCS 5/24-1(a)(2), and local ordinances may add limits.
Not legal advice. This page is general educational information, not legal advice. I'm not an attorney. City, county, tribal, federal, and private-property rules can be stricter than state law, and laws change. Check the current statute and talk to a licensed attorney in your area if you have questions.
Every state, in one book
This page is a short summary. For all 50 states, D.C., and the U.S. territories, see Nunchaku Laws.
Book 2 in the Nunchaku Mastery series
Nunchaku LawsA 50-State Guide to Possession, Carry, and Self-Defense Law, Plus D.C. and U.S. Territories
Paperback, 204 pages. A Kindle ebook version is also available.
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