UK Sword Documentation

In 2008 the UK government updated the 1988 Criminal Justice Act (Offensive Weapons), to include curved bladed swords with a length greater than 50cm.  This amendment made it an offense to buy, sell, import, make or in any way transfer swords which fell under that definition.   Since that time, simple possession of an Iaito has been added to the list of prohibitions in further ammendments.

These amendments include exemptions from prosecution for swords supplied for a "permitted or sporting activity" provided that public liabilty insurance is held for that group or associations activities.

You can read the full text of the original amendment here.  Please note that there may be additional amendments not linked here.

In line with these regulations we need to take copies of relevant documentation from our UK customers, so that we as sellers, and you as buyers, are protected from any potential future prosecution.  If challenged we will retain documented proof that at the time of sale you were a member of a group with public liability insurance for a permitted activity.   Please note that if you discontinue your practice, you need to ensure you do not fall foul of the new regulations surrounding the possession of swords.

For full details of the documentation we need, please download our sword details form here. 

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If you need any assistance of guidance please get in touch by email.