Question:

Do you need a permit to own a sword in Bergen County, New Jersey?

by Guest57753  |  earlier

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Question has the brunt of it, but I own a Naginata and a Cold Steel Bokken, and I only *just* got asked by a friend if a permit is needed. I never was asked if I had one when I bought them, so I didn't know how to answer her question. If someone could answer with a legitimate sited source, I would be grateful.

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  1. I've been told, although I don't have a source, that it depends whether the sword is sharp or not.

    If its sharp, then its considered a deadly weapon and you need a permit.

    If its not sharp, then its considered a form of art and you don't need a permit.


  2. Hey, I live in Bergen County, New Jersey! I was just about to ask the same question. If you find out the answer, though, email me. I'm planning on buying a sword, but I decided to learn a little about the laws here before I go out and get one.

  3. I don't know in your county, but I sold swords for many years in California.  There you are not allowed to carry one concealed (or any other weapon).  But they are fine as part of a collection or costume.

    I doubt if sharpened is part of the legal definition because it is so subjective.

    Some areas have a distinction for double edged weapons of any size - one edge OK, two edges not OK.

    I'd call the local constabulary and ask, and get the penal code section.  Then go to a knife/sword shop in the area and ask.  Check out both answers - I have had 'experts' and police tell me laws that just were not so on this subject.

    If you start reading the actual penal code, make sure you read everything on the subject - just reading part can give you an entirely wrong idea.

    Just don't claim it's for self defense or anything like that.  How you intend to use it affects it's legal status. Like a baseball bat in your car behind your seat - if a cop asks what that is and you reply "It's my baseball bat" you will probably get a different reaction from saying "That's my beating stick."

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