Alexei Volkov
Whether plastic swords are allowed at conventions (cons) depends on the con. For example, Canadian cons are stricter than American ones. Most cons have a list of rules on their website for what is and isn't allowed. Metal weapons are typically not allowed at cons, but plastic or wood swords are sometimes permitted. Cons with weapons checks include San Diego Comic-Con, Anime Boston, and Anime Midwest.
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What You'll Learn
Plastic swords that look like metal are usually allowed
Policies on plastic swords vary across different conventions. Plastic swords that look like metal are usually allowed, but it is important to check the rules of the specific convention you are attending. Some conventions, like Dragon*Con in Atlanta, allow a wide range of items as long as they are appropriately peace-tied. Other conventions, like the Hynes Convention Center, do not allow wood, and some conventions do not approve weapons and props before the event, requiring inspection at the convention.
It is important to note that most conventions do not allow metal weapons, and any weapons brought to the convention must be holstered, sheathed, or slung in an approved fashion. All weapons must also be checked and authorized by the Weapons Masters at the Weapons Registration tables. Some conventions, like Anime North, have strict rules against horseplay with weapons, and failure to adhere to the rules may result in penalties such as expulsion from the convention without a refund.
To ensure your plastic sword is allowed at the convention you are attending, it is recommended to review the convention's "Prop Policy" and "Prohibited Items List" beforehand. Additionally, you can consider adding features to your sword to make it look more obviously fake, such as an orange gun tip.
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Swords must be appropriately peace-tied
The rules for bringing swords to conventions (cons) vary from con to con. Most conventions have a list of rules on their website for what is and isn't allowed. It's important to check the rules for the individual con you're attending, as well as the rules of the venue where the con is being held. Some venues may not allow certain types of materials, such as wood or metal.
If you're bringing a sword to a con, it's essential that it is appropriately peace-tied. This means that the sword must be secured in a way that prevents it from being drawn or used as a weapon. Here are some things to keep in mind to ensure your sword is appropriately peace-tied:
- Check the con's rules: Different cons may have specific requirements for how swords should be peace-tied. Some may provide string or zip ties to secure your sword, while others may require you to bring your own materials.
- Secure the sword to its sheath: One common method of peace-tying a sword is to use zip ties or string to secure the sword to its sheath, ensuring that it cannot be drawn. You can also wrap the zip ties with a piece of fabric that matches your costume to make it look nicer.
- Make sure the sword cannot be easily accessed: The peace-tie should prevent the sword from being easily drawn or removed from its sheath. This may involve securing the sword through the belt loop or another secure point.
- Inspect the sword before entering the con: Most cons will have a designated area where you can have your sword inspected and approved. It's important to bring your sword to this area for approval before entering the con.
- Be mindful of physical safety: When bringing a sword to a con, it's crucial to prioritize the physical safety and peace of mind of other attendees, staff, and the general public. Even if your sword is clearly a prop, it should be handled responsibly and not used in a way that could cause harm.
By following these guidelines and checking the specific rules of the con you're attending, you can ensure that your sword is appropriately peace-tied and complies with the safety requirements of the event.
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Swords must be checked and authorised by Weapons Masters
It is important to note that weapon policies vary from con to con, with some conventions being stricter than others. For example, Canadian cons are known to be stricter than American ones. Most conventions have a list of rules on their website outlining what is and isn't allowed, and it is always a good idea to call or check the website for confirmation.
If you plan on bringing a sword to a con, it is crucial to have it checked and authorised by Weapons Masters or weapon inspectors at the event. These individuals are responsible for ensuring the safety of all attendees and will determine whether your sword is permitted. In some cases, swords may be allowed as long as they can be sealed by staff or appropriately peace-tied. For example, at San Diego Comic-Con, weapons are inspected and tagged accordingly. If a weapon is deemed safe in reality, it receives a small, shiny blue band.
Additionally, certain materials may be prohibited. For instance, one source mentions that the Hynes Convention Center does not allow wood. It is crucial to review the "Prop Policy" and "Prohibited Items List" of the specific con you are attending to ensure your sword complies with their rules.
To increase the chances of your sword being approved, ensure it does not resemble a real weapon too closely. Prop weapons should look like props and not like the real thing. Adding elements that make it clear your sword is a prop, such as an orange tip, can be helpful. It is also recommended to have a backup prop in case your sword replica is not allowed. Remember, the decision ultimately lies with the Weapons Masters or weapon inspectors, and their primary concern is the physical safety and peace of mind of all attendees.
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Swords must be holstered, sheathed, or slung in an approved fashion
The rules for bringing swords to conventions (cons) vary from con to con. Some cons, such as Dragon*Con in Atlanta, allow a lot of things as long as they are appropriately peace-tied. Other cons, such as Anime Boston, do not allow wood. Most cons do not allow metal weapons, but plastic or wood that looks like metal is usually permitted.
If you plan to bring a sword to a con, it is important to check the specific rules for that con. In general, swords must be holstered, sheathed, or slung in an approved fashion. This means that the sword must be securely attached to your body or clothing in a way that is safe for yourself and those around you.
There are several ways to holster, sheath, or sling a sword. One option is to use a scabbard, which is a protective cover for the sword blade. Scabbards can be worn at the waist, allowing for easy access to the sword. However, this method can be cumbersome, especially for larger swords. Alternatively, the scabbard and sword can be slung over the shoulder, with the sword being drawn by removing the scabbard and tossing it aside. This method is depicted in some European art.
Another option is to carry the sword on your back, either in a back scabbard or with the sword blade tied to the side of your bag. This method is less cumbersome but may result in a slower draw. It is important to note that back scabbards are not typically used for combat draws and are more suitable for transporting the sword. Additionally, some cons may have specific requirements or restrictions on how swords can be carried, so it is essential to review their prop policy and prohibited items list before the event.
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Some cons don't approve weapons before the event
Policies on plastic swords vary from con to con, with some being stricter than others. While some conventions have a list of rules on their website for what is and isn't allowed, others do not approve weapons before the event. For example, the Hynes Convention Center, which hosts Anime Boston, does not approve weapons and props before the con. Attendees must bring their items to the check-in area for inspection.
Some conventions, like Dragon*Con in Atlanta, allow a lot of things as long as they are appropriately peace-tied. Most cons will not approve a prop weapon if it looks realistic and could be mistaken for the real thing. It is important to remember that prop weapons need to look like props, not like actual weapons.
If you are unsure about whether your plastic sword will be approved, it is recommended to review the convention's "Prop Policy" and "Prohibited Items List" beforehand to get an idea of their guidelines. It is also a good idea to be prepared with a backup prop in case your plastic sword cannot be approved. Additionally, you can always call the convention organizers or check their website for confirmation.
It is worth noting that some conventions, like Anime Midwest, will allow swords as long as they can be sealed by the staff. If the sword cannot be sealed, it should be kept in a safe place away from crowds. Overall, the approval of plastic swords at conventions ultimately comes down to the individual security guard or convention staff member inspecting the item.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the con. Most conventions have a list of rules on their website for what is and isn't allowed. Plastic or wood swords are generally permitted as long as they don't look like metal.
Yes, all weapons must be holstered, sheathed, or slung in an approved fashion. They also will not be displayed outside of convention function space or in any public or crowded area except for specific photo ops areas.
You can check the con's website for their rules on what is and isn't allowed. You can also bring your sword to the con and have it inspected and approved by security.
If your sword doesn't meet the con's requirements, you may be asked to keep it in a safe place away from the crowds or leave it outside the hall. It's a good idea to have a backup prop in case your sword can't get in.
