posted 09-02-2002 07:11 AM               

I am new to swords and do not have specific knowledge of sword laws, BUT have been shooting for some years and have held a concealed carry permit for about six. I spent a great deal of time researching the laws about carrying a pistol, and found the following general principles to be useful. I assume they will also apply to swords.

1. As has already been mentioned, laws vary wildly, by state and (sometimes) locality.

2. With due respect to the other posters, Internet legal advice is worth every cent you paid for it. It is usually not necessary (or even desireable) to get formal legal advice, but it IS highly desireable to look up the law for yourself. This takes a bit of work but is worth the effort.

3. If at all possible, don't just check statutes, but check administrative regulations and court cases as well. There are standard "How To" books for legal research [IMHO, _Legal Research_ by Nolo Press is one of the best]. Again, this involves a bit of work but you don't need to be a genius to do it.

4. Asking the police is not a _bad_ idea, but you'd be amazed what the police don't know. Some police are very much up on the law, others know next to nothing. The only way to tell which kind you're talking to is to look it up for yourself. Asking them is still a good idea, since it will tell you what their general attitude is.

In brief, it's worth the effort to LOOK IT UP FOR YOURSELF.

As has already been noted, a lot will depend on context; where you are and what you are doing. For better or worse, swords are NOT generally considered "normal" by the general public, even in areas where guns are. In most places having a sword with you will get you labeled as EITHER "person with a quaint/odd hobby" or "dangerous lunatic". Your behavior and general demeanor should be such that it is clear which group you belong to.

If you are scaring the Normals, a reason will be found to detain and (at least) mildly hassle you, regardless of what the law is, and they *will* get away with it.

Just my own observations, carried over from a similar area. YMMV. Remember to LOOK IT UP FOR YOURSELF. Very important, that.

best regards,