Do we really not? What happens at cosplay and Renfest? Honor guard, veterans parades, pirate stunt shows, Antietam reenactments?
Any blade longer than 5.5" is illegal. Cosplay and Renfest are private property. http://codes.lp.findlaw.com/txstatutes/PE/10/46/46.02 Subsection 6 defines illegal knife: http://www.statutes.legis.state.tx.us/Docs/PE/htm/PE.46.htm Apparently "dagger" means any knife with a cutting edge on front and back. You'll be sad to learn that any Roman Legions marching the streets with pila (spears) and gladius (short swords) will be in violation of the law on two counts each. Also, there is a group trying to get these laws repealed. They manage to get some of the restrictions on switchblade rolled back, effective September 1.
Indeed, I would think a well-armed militia should have weapons suitable for various engagements and various ranges. You don't want to bring a puny handgun to a close quarters blade fight -- you want to bring a handgun *and* a sword, *and* an elven blade, *and* a spear, ... and an assault rifle.
I forgot the Heller decision. You are correct, it can mean any defensive weapon. Thr issue of knives and swords just usually doesn't come up and I jumped to fire arms.
http://http://online.wsj.com/public/resources/documents/knives.pdf Here is an excellent article on point.
What's the legality on saps/blackjacks? I know in some places they are outright banned but I was wondering if it's even possible to buy them or carry them anywhere. ...Asking for a friend, of course.
I like to carry an AK47 around. The question I have is, can I legally attach the bayonet while in public?
Sock full of nickels works just as well. If the cops stop you just say you're on the way to the coinstar machine.