Accuqring Decent Kuks in India

[Zake]

Well it seems after pestering several members of this website I have finally learned that you can't import a Kuk form out of the country. So now I am trying to get one in India and if possible in Kolkata. I was extremly fascinated with the 12 inch Ang Khola and the 18 inch Kumar Kobra. Anyone who is able to help me get one of them or anything simmilar (10inch blade) please, please do. Thanks a ton in advance the other ton will be delivered upon succesion.

[Olly]

You might get yourself in trouble as blades over 9" x 2" are illegal.....

[Ticky]

You might get yourself in trouble as blades over 9" x 2" are illegal.....

Olly!

Are you saying that it is banned totally or is it possible to have one only after getting a license for it? Would be really greatful if I can get more details on this. Thankx.

[Olly]

Ofcourse if you get a license there is no problem... even a Prohibited Bore .45 is legal on a license.

The dimensions are mentioned in the Arms Act. How to interpret it and whether or not to trouble you is purely dependent on our 'friendly neighbourhood' cop. Even a knife within dimensions can be interpreted as a weapon and one can be grilled on reasons for carry, intentions, personal background, etc etc. Hope you understand what I mean...

[Ticky]

Olly!

Can you give us more information on how to acquire a license for it?

[Olly]

The process is the same as for firearms... except that they'll frown upon you....and show suspicion...
It may be different if you show inheritance and keeping it for sentimental reasons...

For reasons of religion and/or place of residence... matters are different...

[Zake]

Okay. I didn't knew that. THat well that sucks. Anyway I need to apply for a licence first then ? But I thought the law said having FIREARMS is illeagal. Knife or Kuk aint FIREARM right ?

[mundaire]

These would be classified under category V of Schedule I of the Arms Rules

Arms other than fire-arms: Sharp-edged and deadly weapons, namely: swords (including sword-stick), daggers, bayonets, spears (including lances and javelins); battle-axes, knives (including kirpans a Khukries and other such weapons with blades longer than 9" or wider than 2" other than those designed for domestic, agricultural, scientific or industrial purpose, steel baton; "Zipo" and other such weapons called "life preserves"; machinery for making arms other than category II; and any other arms which the Central Government may notify under Sec. 4.

[BJL]

So technically you need a license to own a sword? Is this actually enforced?

[mundaire]

Hmm, well it really depends on your jurisdiction - in Punjab & Rajasthan (to the best of my knowledge) this is not enforced at all. On the other hand I believe they are quite strict about swords in Mumbai, I was told even bridegrooms end up carrying what is basically a small knife encased in a long swords sheath...

I have yet to see a sword endorsed on someone's license... and I bet if you go to your local licensing authority asking them to issue you a license for a sword they won't know how to go about processing your request!

Cheers!
Abhijeet

[BJL]

Yeah, thought so.

[Olly]

They'd be more interested in knowing how you acquired it in the first place...and WHY... which immediately would kill your interest in the license and make you wish that you were out of that place ASAP, before some more uncomfortable questions came up.. !

[penpusher]

A khukri is also used for every day chores chopping wood,lopping off branches,cutting grass, butchering animals and chopping meat.So possessing one may not be a problem.Carrying one would certainly invite trouble.

Sikhs are allowed to carry a sword and gurkhas a khukri.The Nihangs carry a lot of edged arms.They however require a license that is issued to them by the head of their group(jatha).

[BJL]

Yeah, I have a few blades that outstrip the 9 x 2 rule by far, so I was trying to gauge possible problems in moving them to India.

[Subal das]

9" long blades, so it is for length of blade only without handle. If so, then it is pretty much liberal law.