Owning a ninja sword is now illegal, even if it is kept in your own home:

A ninja sword is defined as a blade between 14 and 24 inches in length, with a primary and secondary straight cutting edge, a blunt spine, and either a tanto-style point or a reversed tanto-style point (angled tip).

It is different from a samurai sword, which has a curved blade. 

New legislation, which will come into effect on 1 August 2025, will make it a criminal offence to possess a ninja sword in private or to manufacture, import, or sell them.  

It is already a criminal offence to carry the weapon in public and can result of a custodial sentence of up to four years.

Anyone caught in possession of a ninja sword in private could face up to six months in prison, which will later increase to two years, under new measures in the Crime and Policing Bill.

There are defences that may be available to you:

• The weapon is antique (over 100 years old).
• For functions carried out on behalf of the Crown or of a visiting force.
• The item is of historical importance.
• Making the weapons available to a museum or gallery in certain circumstances.
• Educational purposes.
• Production of certain films or certain television programmes.
• Theatrical performances and rehearsals of such performances.
• Made before 1954.
• Made at any other time according to the traditional methods of sword making by hand.
• Religious reasons.
• Religious ceremonies.
• Use in permitted activities (for example a historical re-enactment or sporting activity).
• Blunt.

Anybody in possession of a ninja sword, who does not have a defence, is advised to call 101 to arrange the surrender of the sword.  It is important that you make arrangements to surrender the sword (don’t just take it to a Police station without notifying them beforehand) and do not take it out in public.

For free initial legal advice about any criminal matter contact our team on: 01606592159.