[MR] Knife and Sword transport laws

[Smith CTR Jeffrey C]

Hi there,

It is good to discuss this.  

In the examples I've looked into for this, there have always been exceptions for educational organizations and reenactments.  I cannot say that this is the case between wherever you are and PA, since I have not looked into it in this part of the world.  In any case, I'd recommend against wearing them into a place of business.

Barcsi Janos

-----Original Message-----
From: atlantia-bounces at seahorse.atlantia.sca.org [mailto:atlantia-bounces at seahorse.atlantia.sca.org] On Behalf Of Garth G. Groff
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2009 12:03
To: atlantia at atlantia.sca.org
Subject: [MR] Knife and Sword transport laws

Friends,

While you are all excited about preparations for Pennsic, this might be a good time to discuss various laws about carrying and wearing weapons in Pennsylvania and other states you will pass through.

Last year we visited Pennsic on our way back from New Hampshire, and took our belt knives and my sword with us. A merchant in New Hampshire from whom I bought a sword belt was shocked to learn I had my sword in the back of our station wagon and exclaimed that I could get in all sorts of trouble for just carrying it if stopped by the police. Odd because they were just down the road from a store that sold swords and daggers. So far my own research has turned up a mish-mash of laws. 
Swords are generally not mentioned (except sword canes, but that isn't of interest to us), but several sates specifically prohibit possession of dirks and daggers, or at least carrying them (which could include feast knives). Than there's the issue of concealment when you get into a car (this I remember from my MP days).

I would like to invite discussion of this topic, and would especially like to hear from those who have law enforcement or legal experience in this area, or society members who have dealt with this question from an official position.

In service,

Mungo Napier, Archer of Mallard Lodge
(mka Garth G. Groff)
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