[John Lee]

Hi all this is my first time here and I was wondering if any helpful folks could help me out with something. I'll be moving back to the UK in September from Singapore after doing my National service and I was wondering how can I bring my commissioning sword back? Would I be in trouble if i checked the sword in ?

Any advice as im very lost with what I should do ?

[Leo Todeschini]

Hi,

I thought National Service ended in the 1960's?

No problem at all bringing it back. Probably polite to let the airline know you will be bringing it and get a written response before you fly and checked in and securely wrapped will be fine. It is of course at their discretion.

As regards customs/police here, there will be no problem importing it if the blade is straight.

However if it has a curved blade, look up on the HM border agency rules and see what your sword comes under. I suspect though that the law was designed for people very different to you and that they are unlikely to bother you. It is really people selling sets of 3 'Samurai' swords at the local market to 12 year olds for £30 that they are wanting to really stop.



Tod

[Jeroen T]

As long as the sword is legal in the UK just put it in your suitcase if it fits.

[Jeffrey Faulk]

I suggest picking up an inexpensive gun-case with foam filling and tucking the sword in there. They can typically be locked up. Put it in your checked baggage. There may be a customs declaration but as long as you make sure you have your papers in order you should be just fine.

[Matthew Bunker]

What Todd said. As long as it's secured in a scabbard or something that ensures that it can't cause any harm, then they won't care.
I take my sharp swords by plane with no difficulties at all.
It's good manners to tell them about it first.

[Matthew Bunker]