How do I remove the blade from my samurai sword?

Question

This is the samurai sword I have.
http://www.amazon.com/Sapphire-Samurai-Warrior-Wrapped-Scabbard/dp/B0009TNGOE/sr=8-1/qid=1161572326/ref=sr_1_1/002-8662029-8067258?ie=UTF8&s=sporting-goods
As you can see, it's very cheap since I bought it as a halloween gimmick. However, I was told that I can't take it out on the street because it would be considered a weapon. Does anyone know how I would be able to remove the blade from the hilt and guard? Or if not, does anyone know how to make it so that it isn't a weapon without damaging the sword itself? Thanks.

Answer 1

I am familiar with this piece. The tang is a "rat-tail" tang, meaning the tang is actually a thin strip of metal fastened into the handle with a nut at the end. It should be hidden under the kashira (endcap). You can unscrew the nut and the blade will fall right out. Now...as far as laws are concerned, I live in California and know the laws here. I'm not sure where you are, but here's my understanding of my laws. To carry a sword in public, sheathed, in ones obi or otherwise, is perfectly legal. This is assuming that no part is intentionally concealed. It is easier to do this as a martial artist as opposed to a costumed character in the fact that there is a true reason to do so. Halloween may be an exception to the rule, being the enormous costume fest that it is. When it becomes illegal is when it is concealed, drawn for some reason other than demonstration or examination, or the hand is upon the tsuka (handle) in a menacing manner. When the blade is drawn or the hand is on the tsuka, it is considered brandishing a deadly weapon.

I hope this helps. Have a great Halloween, and if you have any other questions, feel free to ask.

Answer 2

I can not see the handle detail very well in the pictures. If it is constructed traditionally there will be a pin of wood (could be plastic on something this in-expensive) The pin is tapered and can be pushed out to one side. After you push out the pin you can then pull the handle guard and collar off the blade tang. This sword may be constructed with a short tang and be pinned at the handle with metal rivets. If this is the case you can not remove the handle and guard with-out damaging the sword. If the sword is not sharpened you may be OK. I do not know who told you that it was not OK to carry in the street. In most states it does not become a weapon unless you use it as one or threaten someone with it. You would have to check with someone in your state who knows the law. You may also be able to tie it closed with wire so it can not be removed from the case/scabbard. I hope this helps. If you want to send me a close-up picture of handle and guard area I will be happy to help you. Good luck.

Answer 3

The photo does not help. Check to see if there is a plastic pin near the guard (tsuba) on the handle. If so, push it through and the handle will come off the tang, name for upper part of sword under the handle , as well as the guard. You them may find a way to jury rig the handle and guard together with out blade. Hope this helps. It is considered a weapon in most states, even if it is not sharpened. Some states allow them as long as they are not concealed. Call your local police station or cop.

Answer 4

You probably can't do that, to my knowledge. You might as well keep it at home and place it on a stand, and use a wooden sword instead or something.

Answer 5

very carefully