UK sword imports, is this term new?

[Alex A 966]

Cant remember ever reading this before,     

 

"was made by traditional hand sword making methods"

 

Swords with a curved blade of 50cm or more may be imported where the weapon:https://www.gov.uk/guidance/import-controls-on-offensive-weapons#importing-firearms-and-ammunition-into-the-uk

• was made before 1954
• was made by traditional hand sword making methods
• is only available for the purposes of use in religious ceremonies or for martial arts
• is for use in a historical re-enactments or sporting activity for example a martial arts demonstration for which public liability insurance is held

[paulb 2,461]

Hi Alex, yes this formed part of the original defenses outlined when they modified the offensive weapons act in 2005 (or 6)

[Alex A 966]

Thats good Paul, i cant remember seeing the bit about martial arts demonstrations either, especially the very modern approach with the mention of public liability insurance 

[Geraint 965]

It was an interesting outcome as the result of quite a bit of work on the part of the societies in the UK and a number of individuals.  Effectively they banned all Japanese swords except those made in Japan before 1954, those made subsequently by licensed smiths.

 

Go figure!  So basically all Japanese swords are banned except those made in Japan.

 

Not a complaint as it allows us to collect, just a note of the bizarre nature of the law in this instance.

 

All the best.

[Alex A 966]

Aye, great work and much appreciated.

 

 

[kissakai 1,026]

I'm sure Antique dealers were included in this list

I've imported and the seller has included my Martial Arts grade and coaching award along with my insurance number

My coaching award is on my Governing Bodies website