Archive for martialarts.myfreeforum.org A discussion of all things Martial Arts related, primarily intended for students of United Dojos, but all welcome.
April 2008 Sword Ban - DISASTER!
In April 2008 the government introduced a sword ban. Initially the ban covered all swords with a curved blade of 50cm or over. There were some exceptions though, we could;
Still sell to martial artists
Still sell swords made in Japan before 1953
Still sell swords made in Japan at any other time, as long as they were made in a traditional manner.
GREAT NEWS! In June/July 2008 the government then changed the third exception and removed the "Japan" part. So we can now sell Hanwei Swords freely as these are made in China, but in the traditional manner (all hand-forged, some of which are folded). With the exception of iaito. These are made from stainless steel and are therefore not traditional. So you will still need to register your details with us if you want to buy iaito.
In our opinion this is the right way to go. The "problem" swords were the 3 for £30 ornamental swords that you would see on the market. We're confident that 99% of our customers are either martial artists who use our swords for their sport. Or collectors with a genuine interest in the art of sword making.
However, it does seem a little silly that you can buy a fully functional sharp sword for £130 (Practical Elite Katana), but have to prove your eligibility to buy a £249 blunt iaito! (Tsuru Iaito)
Tadakatsu
If you got the money and have been wanting a sword for a while, I say get in there quick or even buy in bulk! Hahaha.
