Are tantos legal in the UK?

As of August 1, 2025, specific "ninja-style" swords, which include certain tanto-pointed blades between 14 and 24 inches, are banned in England and Wales under new, stricter legislation. While traditional, smaller tanto knives used for tools or crafts are generally legal to own at home, carrying any locking or fixed-blade knife in public without a "good reason" is illegal.

Can you own a tanto in the UK?

From today, Friday, August 1, 2025, it is illegal to own, make, sell or import ninja swords in England and Wales. A ninja sword is defined as having a blade between 14in to 24in (35cm to 60cm) in length, with a tanto or reversed tanto-style point and a possible second blade attached at an angle.

Can you own an OTF knife in the UK?

Stick to the UK Knife laws, and you'll be fine! OTF (Out The Front) and Flick Knives: With their futuristic blade deployment mechanism, OTF knives are strictly prohibited in the UK. These include knives with switches that when pushed forward deploys the knife automatically out of the front of the handle.

What can I legally carry for self-defense in the UK?

In the UK, the only universally legal self-defence item is a personal alarm, which creates a loud noise to deter attackers and attract help, with other items like self-defence sprays (even "legal" ones) and tactical pens carrying legal risks as they can be deemed "offensive weapons" if intended to cause harm, making their legality dependent on context and intent, so avoiding them is safest. You can also use reasonable force in your home, but carrying anything outside for defence is generally prohibited, with rape alarms being the primary exception.

What knife can I legally carry in the UK?

In the UK, you can legally carry a folding pocket knife with a blade under 3 inches (7.62cm) and that does not lock, without needing a good reason; otherwise, you need a legitimate purpose (like for work, religious reasons, or cultural events) to carry any other knife, as lock knives, fixed blades, or longer folding knives are generally illegal in public without justification.

Every Day Carry - What is Legal in the UK?

What blade shape is strongest?

Drop Point: * Purpose: A very versatile blade shape, known for its strength and control. The convex curve of the spine towards the tip lowers the point, making it excellent for general tasks like hunting, skinning, and everyday carry.

Can I legally carry a Swiss Army knife in the UK?

Yes, Swiss Army knives are generally legal in the UK if they are non-locking folding pocket knives with a blade under 3 inches (7.62 cm), as these don't require a "good reason" to carry; however, any knife with a locking blade or a blade over 3 inches requires a legitimate purpose (like work or religious reasons) to carry in public, and threatening anyone with any knife is always illegal.

What is the punishment for killing someone in self-defense in the UK?

Self-defence is an absolute defence which applies in crimes committed by force; it applies even in cases of murder. If a jury finds that a defendant was acting in self-defence, they will be acquitted. However, yes, it is possible to go to jail if you kill someone and the force you used is judged to be excessive.

What can bodyguards carry in the UK?

No, a security guard cannot carry weapons of any kind. A security guard may carry handcuffs, but this is not endorsed by the SIA. A security guard must be able to explain to the police why handcuffs were necessary to detain an individual.

What knife do the SAS use today?

The knife was made famous during the War when issued to British Commandos, including the SAS. Although the Fairbairn-Sykes knife is now of interest mainly to collectors, its sleek lines and commando associations means it still remains in production today.

Can Sikhs carry knives in the UK?

Kirpans in the UK and police service

The legislation reaffirms the right of the Sikh community to possess and supply kirpans.

What is the largest knife you can own in the UK?

UK Knife law states that you are allowed to carry a non-locking pocket knife with a blade length of up to 3 inches (7.62) without any need for a valid reason. This means that you are allowed to carry a knife in public that exceeds these guidelines. You do, however, need a valid reason for doing so.

Can I have a samurai sword in my house in the UK?

Any swords bought must be held in your home, and are not allowed in public without a valid reason. You may carry a sword outside the home, for going to and from an engagement such as using the sword as a prop in a sport, re-enactment or stage combat/acting, as long as it is fully covered.

Can a ninja sword cut through bone?

With a precise and well-executed technique, a katana can potentially cut through bone, especially if the bone is relatively thin or if there is sufficient force applied. However, it's worth noting that cutting through bone is not the primary purpose of a katana.

Are tri blades illegal?

Contrary to the myth, triangle blades such as these are not banned by the Hague or Geneva Conventions. An additional protocol to the Geneva Conventions of 1949 bans the use of “bayonets with a serrated edge,” but does not mention knives or triangle blades.

What can I legally carry for self-defense in the UK?

In the UK, the only universally legal self-defence item is a personal alarm, which creates a loud noise to deter attackers and attract help, with other items like self-defence sprays (even "legal" ones) and tactical pens carrying legal risks as they can be deemed "offensive weapons" if intended to cause harm, making their legality dependent on context and intent, so avoiding them is safest. You can also use reasonable force in your home, but carrying anything outside for defence is generally prohibited, with rape alarms being the primary exception.

Are nunchucks illegal in the UK?

In England and Wales, public possession of nunchaku is heavily restricted by the Prevention of Crime Act 1953 and the Criminal Justice Act 1988.

What should I carry for self-defense?

11 Highly Effective Non-Lethal Self Defense Options

• Pepper Spray for Self Defense. ...
• Tasers are a Less-Lethal Defense Option. ...
• Non-Lethal Self-Defense with a Stun Gun. ...
• Keychain Weapons for Discreet Self Defense. ...
• Flashlights Can be Defensive Tools. ...
• Byrna Guns for Stronger Non-Lethal Force. ...
• Self Defense with Batons.

What is still punishable by death in the UK?

The Human Rights Act formally abolished the death penalty in the UK. This means that a public official, including the police or courts, cannot execute someone or sentence them to death as punishment for something they have done. This applies in all circumstances, including during peacetime and times of conflict.

Can you punch someone if they get in your face?

Someone shouts and gets in your face, but doesn't reach for you: don't punch. Back away, leave, or call the police if needed. Someone grabs you or makes a move to strike: defensive force may be lawful. Your response should stop the threat, not be punitive.

What is the best weapon for home defense?

Best Home Defense Guns

1. Glock 19 Gen 5 – Best CCW. ...
2. Walther PDP Full Size 4.5 – Best Full-Size Pistol. ...
3. Springfield Armory 1911 Operator AOS – Best State-Compliant Pistol. ...
4. Mossberg 590A1 – Best Pump-Action Shotgun. ...
5. Beretta 1301 – Best Semi-Auto Shotgun. ...
6. Palmetto State Armory AR-15 Pistols – Best Value AR-15.

How effective is a push dagger?

Answer: Push daggers are effective for a multitude of reasons. They're hard to disarm, easier to carry and conceal than most fixed blades, fast to access with one hand, and boast serious penetration power.

Do British Army soldiers carry knives?

The Sheffield British Army Knife has been used by generations of British soldiers; this useful tool has been carried onto the battlefield since the beginning of the last century.

Is Leatherman legal carry UK?

You can carry some Leatherman multi-tools in the UK, but those with locking blades are illegal to carry in public without a good reason, like for work or camping; models like the Leatherman Bond with non-locking blades and short blades (under 3 inches) are generally considered UK legal for everyday carry (EDC). The key is "lawful authority or reasonable excuse," so carrying a locking-blade Leatherman just because it's handy is an offense, while carrying one for a legitimate job (e.g., electrician) is usually fine.