Today’s question is…
Is my bow and arrow for my Katniss costume safe to take to a convention?
Can I repaint the orange tip on my toy blaster and still carry it to a con?, etc.
It’s a question I see a lot – what is “safe” and “ok” prop to carry to a convention, because we all see silly and sometimes horrible stories coming out of conventions about overzealous security staff.
First up, every convention has their own weapons policy. Some are more lenient than others. Some are extremely strict. It’s worth checking into before you ever purchase or build your weapon/prop – if it’s not listed on their website, send them a message and ask. Keep their reply for future reference.
Most conventions will have a Weapons Check table or area. Take your weapon over there and get it checked out. Generally they will tie a ribbon, or a zip-tie, or something that will let other security and staff know that you have gotten the weapon checked out, it has been OK-ed, and they don’t need to bother you about it.
Sometimes they will want to peace-tie it. They will tie or zip-tie swords into their sheaths or guns into holsters so they can’t be drawn. I’ve watched con security attempt to zip-tie a wooden prop sword into a wooden sheath (without much success) and wonder why – the sheath was exactly the same as the sword, LOL. I’ve also had my own props taped and zip-tied, which has caused damage to my props and I was not very happy.
This is why I say, either avoid carrying a weapon that needs to be checked out, or peace-tie it yourself before heading to weapons check. When building your own props, mentally prepare yourself for any kind of reaction and build accordingly.
If you’re asked to return your prop or weapon to your room, just do it. Save it for a later photoshoot.
Generally your rule of thumb is, if it looks like you can actually harm someone with it, it’ll probably be an issue. Realistic looking guns, a real bow, a metal sword – those are things some conventions don’t allow, and could possibly get you in trouble with security and/or the police. A big pink foam sword with ribbons hanging off of it probably isn’t going worry anyone, but a real looking gun without an orange safety tip may set off alarm bells with security, other con-goers, or regular folks out on the street.
You really really don’t want to carry anything that could, at best, get you removed from the convention, at worst, could get you in trouble with the police. Do your research into your convention’s rules and plan accordingly!