Our insurer does not set a definition for what is considered a live bladed weapon, so we've created an internal definition which can be used by clubs when making informed decisions on the correct training weapons.

Please also note this isn't a qualified legal opinion on the matter, but is specific to martial arts under BMABA;

Live Blade is a term we employ within the realm of martial arts to designate a bladed weapon with a sharpened edge, capable of causing genuine serious injuries to a person or damage to property. Live blades are identified by their keen cutting edge and are usually crafted from premium metal, such as steel. They are intended for practical application in combat or self-defence scenarios.

Blunted metal weapons, on the other hand, possess dulled edges, making them unable to inflict serious harm. Training weapons are typically fashioned from non-metallic materials, such as foam, wood, or rubber, specifically designed for secure and controlled practice.

Typically, training weapons are those commercially available from high-street and online retailers, such as Blitz, Bytomic and Amazon etc. Live bladed weapons are usually illegal to carry in public without the exemption for martial arts (see our live blade policy guidance).