The Toy Association Statement on Toy Guns

There have been a number of unfortunate incidents where items have been mistaken by law enforcement for real guns, often resulting in tragedy. While the items involved are often described as “toy guns,” they are not. They are typically non-powder weapons such as BB or pellet guns, “airsoft” guns, paintball guns, or replica firearms. Toys are subject to stringent federal marking requirements that mandate the use of brightly colored markings to clearly differentiate them from actual firearms; these other items are not.

This statement was reaffirmed by The Toy Association in October 2024.