Is Owning a Sword Illegal UK?

Owning a sword in the UK is not entirely illegal, but it is heavily regulated by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, which prohibits the sale and possession of certain types of swords, including those with a curved blade longer than 50 cm, unless they are hand-forged in a traditional way, antiques, or samurai swords made before 1954. The UK law allows individuals to own swords for legitimate purposes, such as martial arts, historical reenactments, or as collectibles, but they must be stored safely at home and not carried in public without a valid reason.

Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. Can I own a sword in the UK?: Yes, you can own a sword in the UK, but you must comply with the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 and ensure that your sword meets the specified criteria.
2. Do I need a license to own a sword in the UK?: No, you do not need a license to own a sword in the UK, but you must be at least 18 years old to purchase one.
3. Can I carry a sword in public in the UK?: No, you cannot carry a sword in public in the UK without a valid reason, such as traveling to or from a martial arts class or a historical reenactment event.

Sword-Specific Questions

4. Are katanas legal in the UK?: Katanas are legal in the UK if they are hand-forged in a traditional way, antiques, or samurai swords made before 1954.
5. Can I own a curved sword in the UK?: You can own a curved sword in the UK if it is hand-forged in a traditional way, an antique, or a samurai sword made before 1954, and the curved blade is not longer than 50 cm.
6. Are samurai swords illegal in the UK?: No, samurai swords are not entirely illegal in the UK, but they are regulated by the Offensive Weapons Act 2019, and you must ensure that your samurai sword meets the specified criteria.

Age and Responsibility

7. Can a 13-year-old own a katana in the UK?: No, you must be at least 18 years old to purchase a katana or any other type of sword in the UK.
8. Can I give a sword as a gift to a minor in the UK?: No, it is not recommended to give a sword as a gift to a minor in the UK, as they are not legally allowed to own one.

Storage and Carriage

9. How should I store my sword in the UK?: You should store your sword safely at home, out of reach of children and unauthorized individuals.
10. Can I carry a sword in my car in the UK?: You can carry a sword in your car in the UK, but it must be fully covered and you must have a valid reason for carrying it.

International Comparisons

11. Is owning a sword illegal in the US?: No, owning a sword is not entirely illegal in the US, but laws vary by state, and some states have specific regulations regarding the ownership and carriage of swords.
12. Can I carry a katana in Japan?: No, carrying a katana in public is illegal in Japan, unless it is certified as an important cultural property or art object.

Other Related Questions

13. Is a wooden sword illegal in the UK?: No, a wooden sword is not illegal in the UK, but you should still carry it covered and have a valid reason for carrying it.
14. Are cane swords illegal in the UK?: Cane swords are illegal in the UK, as they are considered concealed weapons.
15. Can I own a machete in the UK?: Yes, you can own a machete in the UK, but you must ensure that it is not a zombie-style or illegal type, and you must store it safely at home.