Yes, carrying a sword in public in Argentina is legal under strict conditions outlined in the Código Penal and Ley Nacional de Armas y Explosivos (26.197). The weapon must be sheathed, non-functional (e.g., blunt or decorative), and carried for ceremonial, cultural, or historical purposes, with prior authorization from the Registro Nacional de Armas (RENAR). Concealed or functional blades are prohibited without a Portación de Arma permit, which is rarely granted for edged weapons.
Key Regulations for Carrying a Sword in Public in Argentina
- Authorization Requirement: A valid Portación de Arma permit from RENAR is mandatory for any blade exceeding 10 cm in length, even if decorative. Applications require proof of legitimate purpose (e.g., historical reenactment groups or martial arts federations).
- Functionality Ban: Functional swords (sharpened edges, functional hilts) are classified as weapons under Ley 26.197, requiring a Tenencia de Arma license for private possession. Public display without a permit constitutes a misdemeanor under Artículo 189 del Código Penal.
- Local Ordinances: Municipalities like Buenos Aires enforce additional restrictions via Código Contravencional. Carrying a sword in high-security zones (e.g., government buildings, public transport) triggers immediate confiscation under Decreto 602/2017.
Violations may result in fines up to ARS 50,000 or imprisonment for up to 2 years under Artículo 189 bis, particularly if the blade is deemed a public threat. RENAR’s 2026 compliance updates emphasize digital verification of permits, requiring owners to register blades via the Sistema de Registro Único de Armas (SIRUA).