Katana, the iconic Japanese swords, have gained popularity in the United States among collectors and martial artists alike. If you’re a resident of West Virginia, you might be asking yourself, “Are katana legal in West Virginia?” The short answer is yes — it’s legal to buy and own a katana in West Virginia, but you should be aware of some important legal details.

Is It Legal to Own a Katana in West Virginia?

Yes, owning a katana in West Virginia is perfectly legal. There are no state-specific laws that prohibit the ownership of katana, and they are considered legal to buy, own, and display without restrictions.

Hand forged Damascus steel blade
Hand-forged Katana sword

Can You Carry a Katana in Public in West Virginia?

While it is legal to own a katana, carrying one in public might be subject to local laws regarding the open carry of bladed weapons. West Virginia’s laws generally regulate carrying weapons in public, especially in certain places:

  • Restricted Areas: You cannot carry a katana in schools, government buildings, or other restricted public places.
  • Age Restrictions: Most local regulations require individuals to be over 18 years old to openly carry a long-bladed weapon like a katana.

Are There Any Blade Length Restrictions in West Virginia?

West Virginia does not impose specific blade length restrictions for katana ownership. However, when carrying a bladed weapon in public, it’s always best to stay informed of local ordinances that may impact certain locations.

FAQs

Yes, it is completely legal to buy and own a katana in West Virginia, and no special permit is required.
Yes, but you should avoid restricted areas like schools and government buildings.
No, you do not need any special permit to own a katana in West Virginia.
There are no specific age restrictions for purchasing, but individuals must be over 18 to carry a katana in public.

Looking for a Katana in West Virginia?

If you’re searching for a high-quality katana in West Virginia, KATANZO offers a range of expertly hand-forged swords. Whether you’re a collector or practitioner of martial arts, you’ll find the perfect katana at KATANZO. Browse our collection today and discover the craftsmanship that goes into each blade.

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.