Is it legal to own a Samurai sword in Australia?
William Harris
Updated on March 18, 2026
Is it legal to own a Samurai sword in Australia?
In general, swords such as a sabre, cutlass, samurai sword, katana, etc fall outside the scope of the Weapons Prohibition Act 1998 and you do not need a licence or permit to own one and there are no specific safe storage requirements.
Is it illegal to carry around a Samurai sword?
But not only is it legal to openly carry a sheathed sword, it’s the law. Any kind of concealment for bladed weapons is a misdemeanor. Bladed weapons in most states where they are legal to carry, are usually illegal if they’re longer than five inches. Concealed blades, like cane swords, are always illegal.
How much does a real Samurai sword cost?
An authentic Samurai sword, hand made in Japan (called a Shinken 真剣), can easily cost US$12,000 to $25,000 and up. Chinese made production level approximations are typically at least $1,000-$2,500 for something reasonably ‘traditional’.
Are real katanas illegal?
Legally Katana are lumped in the same category as knives and governed by state rather than federal laws, though as with knives, a collector must be over 18 years old OR have their parent’s implicit permission to buy or own a Katana.
Does sword need license?
Originally Answered: Is it necessary to have a license to keep a sword in India? Absolutely not. No need of license if you have knife or sword.
Can you have a Samurai sword in your house?
Is it legal to own a sword? An amendment of this act was passed months later in August 2008, allowing curved and Samurai swords, which are handmade using traditional forging methods before 1954, to be sold without a license. All the swords sold on our site are legal to own in the UK.
Are katanas legal in Australia Queensland?
You are allowed to bring in traditional Japanese Katana and Samurai swords and replicas of these into Australia.
Can you keep a samurai sword in your house?
All products sold on our website are legal to buy and own in the UK if you are aged 18 years and over. Any swords bought must be held in your home, and are not allowed in public without a valid reason.
What’s the difference between a katana and a Samurai sword?
The longer curved edge traditional Samurai sword was usually around 36″ long and a shorter sword of like design known as a katana was usually around 24″-26″ long. The swords that the samurai carried were made of high-carbon steel, were often conferred to show status and often took months to make.
How much does a katana cost in Australia?
The first shipment of sixty units is scheduled to arrive in Australia during September for a manufacturers suggested price of $18,990 Ride Away with 12 months registration ($17,490 + ORC) and is backed by Suzukis 24 month, unlimited kilometre warranty.
Can you walk down the street with a sword?
Those who enjoy fencing may wish to carry an épée, sabre, or foil, but even if sheathed, it may be illegal to carry in public on your person. So while it may be legal in some specific circumstances, carrying a sword in public is typically illegal.
Is it legal to keep a sword at home?
No. It is not legal. It is prohibited under the Arms Act to possess one without licence. One needs to have a licence for any weapon even bladed ones if it is larger than a permitted size.