Open Carry of Swords and Sword-Like-Objects

[armoredman]

Dumb question time - why is this sword shaped object referred to as a "waster"?
I carried a short sword once, for grins and giggles. Good quality thing, not a cheap display sword, got one or two looks, nothing else.

 

[glistam]

Because it's used for training that often involves physical impact (especially if used full-force on an inanimate pell), so it's generally not meant to last forever. Though it was my understanding this term is not used for blunt steel, just wood or nylon weapons. I also thought "sword-like-object" was confined to simple replicas, sharp or blunt, of inferior craftsmanship intended for display.

 

[General Geoff]

Carry it proudly, and if someone gives you gruff, just reply with "There can be only one."

 

[Cosmoline]

LOL

 

[hso]

http://www2.knifecenter.com/item/CIOH2158/CAS-Hanwei-Large-Sword-Bag

 

[theotherwaldo]

Freaking the Mundanes is a grand old tradition. Carry your waster with pride, and glory in those witless ones that point and stare.

 

[Officers'Wife]

Hmmm, paint it yellow with black lines and numbers and tell people it's a yardstick?

 

[22-rimfire]

The "looks" don't surprise me in the least. Get a bag or tube to carry it on your bicycle (strapped to the frame). I don't think our society is ready for swords openly carried again.

Pick a big enough piece to flatten and it could cover the guard and be completely unrecognizable.

Or just use a piece of PVC and you can look like a plumber on a bicycle.

 

[zignal_zero]

LEMAYMIAMI -

yer name suggests you are in FL. I was LEO in FL for many years. As you apparently know, we have no statute against the open carry of a nonfirearm weapon. So... OC'n a sword is legal here.

I was on duty and saw a group of youngsters walking down the sidewalk, the oldest was dressed all King Louis era looking and had a big sword hanging off his hip. While not illegal, this did strike me as odd. Truth is I had no RS to detain, so my contact was (had to be) consentual. I just walked up (carefully considering what a real bladesman can accomplish with such a weapon) and struck up a "how ya doin" line of conversation. After the normal pleasantries, I asked "so what's with the sword?" He told me he just felt like going all Ren today, when he woke up. All I could think to say was, "OK, cool. Well, don't hack anybody up and have a great day". Still among the top weirdest things I remember from that job

 

[AJumbo]

Hmm..... If the waster is secure, but still readily accessible, I wouldn't change a thing. If you get accosted by someone who means you no good, you have a weapon that extends you reach inside his, and the training to employ it. A plastic waster shouldn't be too vulnerable to weather, though I suppose the hilt could be slippery if it got wet.

My problem would be resisting the temptation to go all 'dragoon' on random roadside objects...

 

[Cosmoline]

fter the normal pleasantries, I asked "so what's with the sword?" He told me he just felt like going all Ren today, when he woke up.

LOL Did they theme to "Portlandia" start playing?

 

[sf46]

I'm sure the laws vary from place to place, but I don't see where you should have much trouble with an open carry plastic practice sword. I've walked around with a real sword on before, during, and after some Civil War reenactments, and I've never had any issues (yet).

 

[RyanM]

Take an old rifle stock and tape it to the sword, so it looks like you have a rifle slung across your back instead.

I'm under the impression that people in AK won't find a guy carrying a rifle unusual at all.

 

[rtrwv]

Pink duct tape with black electrical tape stripes.

 

[Creature]

If in fact you are not breaking any laws, don't worry about it. Be prepared to stand your ground and answer any questions from an 'interviewing' LEO.

 

[PJSprog]

A simple bag sewn together and tied at the top (like a katana bag) would be easy and inexpensive to make, and would likely end your concerns.

 

[Critical J]

Well, I don't own any swords, but no one's ever
bothered me while carrying around one of these...