Harry Potter Sword Recall: Japan Enforces Strict Weapons Law

Over 350 replicas of Godric Gryffindor's sword sold in Japan face recalls due to sharpness violations under Japan's stringent weapons legislations.

Warner Bros. Studio Japan LLC has recalled full-sized replicas of Godric Gryffindor's sword from the beloved Harry Potter franchise after authorities deemed them sharp enough to be classified as actual swords, violating Japan's strict weapon laws. Measuring 86cm (34 inches) and sold on a wooden display plaque, the replicas were available for purchase from May 2023 until late April 2024.

The concern arose when officials notified the company in November that these items could pose a safety risk. More than 350 replicas, priced at 30,000 yen (approximately $200; £158), were sold to fans at the newly opened Warner Bros. Studio Tour Tokyo: The Making of Harry Potter, which is touted as the largest indoor Harry Potter attraction globally.

Warner Bros. Japan has issued a recall notice on its website, asking customers who purchased the sword to reach out for “necessary action including logistics and refund.” The company has yet to respond to queries regarding the recall from the press.

In Japan, laws restrict carrying knives longer than 6cm (2 inches), with offenders potentially facing up to two years in prison. Replicas sharp enough to be categorized as swords must also be registered, unless they are intended solely for training or decoration and are unsharpened. Despite Japan's historically low crime rates, there have been isolated incidents involving weapons, emphasizing the government's stringent regulations designed to maintain public safety.