Can a bring a decorative sword onto an airplane as a carry on?

Question

I bought an imitation samurai sword as a fun item to remember my trip to asia, but now I realize there might be a problem getting it back to back home to the U.S.

It's about 3 feet long and made of steel. the blade is dulled but it weighs a good 5 pounds and could probably be used as a blunt weapon if anyone was so inclined.

My arguement is that its a fancy cane and that if I tried anything on a plane I'd probably get beaten to death before I can even unsheathed it.

sighs, I still think with this post-911 situation that I'm SOOL

Answer 1

You can pack it in checked luggage, but your best bet is a ground shipment via DHL or other carrier.  They will take care of all the security and customs issues for you.    I tried to get a quote from UPS but their systems are slow.    Best I came up with was expedited service at around $200, but there are probably cheaper and slower options.

You might also inquire if your airline will take it as cargo..  You will need to pack it well, of course.

Answer 2

i don't think they'll let you take it on simply because it looks like a weapon even if you say you can't use it or won't use it. they probably wouldn't buy it if you said it was a cane because you probably wouldn't look like you need one.

Answer 3

No. I'm surprised you even ask the question. My wife had a pair of tweezers taken off her and then when we went into the duty free shop they had full manicure sets on sale!

Answer 4

It is a definite no although you can put it in your hold luggage  as i did recently

Answer 5

Probablely can't.

You'd better ship it via a carrier.