Katana, the elegant Japanese swords, are admired by collectors and martial artists across the United States. If you’re living in Virginia, you might be wondering, “Are katana legal to own in Virginia?” The simple answer is yes — owning and purchasing a katana in Virginia is legal, but it’s important to be aware of some key laws related to weapon ownership and carry in the state.

Is It Legal to Own a Katana in Virginia?

Yes, owning a katana in Virginia is perfectly legal. There are no specific state laws that prohibit the ownership of swords or katana. You can freely buy, display, and own a katana without any special restrictions.

Hand forged Damascus steel blade
Hand forged Katana sword

Can You Carry a Katana in Public in Virginia?

In Virginia, while you are allowed to own a katana, carrying it in public can be more complex. Virginia law generally prohibits carrying dangerous weapons like swords with the intent to cause harm. This applies to katana, meaning it’s legal to transport or own them, but carrying them openly in public may be scrutinized. Always ensure your katana is securely stored when transporting it.

Are There Any Blade Length Restrictions in Virginia?

Virginia does not enforce any blade length restrictions for ownership of katana or swords. However, caution is advised when carrying any long-blade weapon in public, as it could be interpreted as intent to cause harm.

FAQs

Yes, purchasing and owning a katana in Virginia is fully legal, with no specific restrictions.
Carrying a katana in public is not encouraged unless properly stored. Open carry could be seen as a public safety issue.
No, no permits are required for owning a katana in Virginia.
There are no specific age restrictions for purchasing a katana in Virginia.

Where to Buy a Katana in Virginia

If you’re looking to buy a katana in Virginia, KATANZO offers a wide selection of hand-crafted, authentic katana that cater to both collectors and practitioners. Whether you want a display piece or a sword for martial arts, explore our collection for high-quality katana that fit your needs.

Legal Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on research conducted by the KATANZO editorial team and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal concerns, we recommend consulting a legal professional in your state.