Are katana's illegal in the Uk?

Question

Because i'm really confused with this, i know that rep/ fantasy ones are, but i've been hearing that you can still buy them if you do MA with it. i've looked all over the internet, but i cant find anything ANYTHING that will tell me, i've been on the gov's site, weapon sites etc etc. any help with this would be welcomed

Morgan

Answer 1

Hi there

Yes you have noticed it too! It would seem that our beloved MP's have banned something that they weren't too sure about.

If you check the home offices web page it tries to break it down but falls sort of doing so.

It is my understanding that the sale and import of imitation samurai swords is now illegal in the UK. If you're caught importing one or selling one you face a large fine and possible jail sentence.

But wait it then also mentions that if you are a practising martial artist  or serious collector you can still buy the real thing? The problem is who says which arts are allowed to participate? If you are a licensed martial artist like me how do you prove it? Do you send off copies of your weapons license? And if so where to? The police? The suppliers? And what  defines is a serious collector? Is it someone who buys real swords or someone who buys antiques? Further to confusion it doesn't say if its illegal to own one either?

I welcome this ban i really do. There was a sword store where i live selling these replicas to every tom, d**k and harry. However my local martial arts store has removed all samurai swords both real and replica from his store and he only sold weapons to licensed practitioners!

On a very sad note i have just read the news headlines about 3 children being stabbed by their parents. This ban  will not prevent stabbings only greater jail sentences can do that.

Even the importers who make the very best blades will not ship to the UK anymore. :-(

Link provided just so you can sulk and read some interesting facts!

http://www.chenessinc.com/

Its all a complete farce but that's what living in the UK is all about!

Best wishes

idai

Answer 2

yes i do belive it is illigal to import or sell katanas in the uk  for unknown reasons