[MR] Knife and Sword transport laws

[Garth G. Groff]

Friends,

I had an interesting chat with two local officers this morning about the 
question of knives. They did not appear to be exactly up on the Virginia 
statutes (I don't expect an officer to know the whole code; they check 
the law books at the booking stage for the specific statute). They did 
offer some very practical advice.

Don't carry your blades on your person while driving, and don't put them 
in the glove box, under the seat, etc., or anywhere they might be within 
reach. Best to keep them sheathed or boxed in the trunk of your car. If 
you are stopped and IF the officer asks whether you have any weapons, 
don't lie or be evasive. Tell him about your blades in the back, and 
explain that you are going to/from a reenactment event. Offer your blue 
card to show you are a member of a legitimate organization. Otherwise 
keep mum, as a police officer should have no reason to examine your 
trunk during a simple traffic/vehicle equipment stop. As His Majesty 
suggests, always keep your hands in plain view. I might add (from my own 
training as an MP) that when an officer asks for your documents, tell 
him where they are (glove box, purse, left rear pocket, etc.) and ask 
his permission to reach for them before moving.

In general, keep in mind that possession of most weapons is a 
constitutionally guaranteed right, and you can transport them for 
legitimate purposes. It is how you do it that might get you into trouble.

Kind regards,


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