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Are Nunchucks Legal in Washington State?

Last checked Nov 13, 2026: Washington names nunchucks ("nun-chu-ka sticks") in one state law: a ban on K-12 school grounds, with an exception for authorized martial-arts classes.

Banned at K-12 schools

Last updated: · By Mason Martinez

The statutes

Owning and carrying: the short version

  • RCW 9.41.280(1)(c) makes it unlawful to carry or possess "nun-chu-ka sticks" on public or private elementary or secondary school premises, school-provided transportation, or facilities used only by schools. A violation is a gross misdemeanor.
  • The school ban does not apply to nun-chu-ka sticks used in martial-arts classes that are authorized to meet on school premises (RCW 9.41.280(4)).
  • Elsewhere, RCW 9.41.250 makes it a gross misdemeanor to furtively carry a dangerous weapon with intent to conceal it.

No Washington statute bans owning nunchucks at home. The state's general possession ban, RCW 9.41.250(1)(a), covers slungshots, sand clubs, metal knuckles and spring blade knives, and nunchucks are not on that list.

Local rules

Cities and counties can have their own weapons rules. Check your local code before you buy or carry.

Buying and shipping

FAQ

Are nunchucks illegal in Washington State?

Washington's statute that names nunchucks (RCW 9.41.280) bans them on K-12 school grounds and school transportation, with an exception for authorized martial-arts classes.

Can I carry nunchucks concealed in Washington?

RCW 9.41.250 makes it a gross misdemeanor to furtively carry a dangerous weapon with intent to conceal it.

Can nunchucks be used in a martial-arts class at a school in Washington?

Yes, when the class is authorized to be held on school premises (RCW 9.41.280(4)).

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.

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