FANIME WEAPONS POLICY 2006
The purpose of our Weapon Policy is to clarify Fanime's position on the carrying and use of prop weapons, costume pieces, or actual weapons. It is intended to be subordinate to Federal, State and Local laws as well as the policies of all space occupied by FanimeCon. The written policy is subject to change without notice or explanation. The definition of a weapon for the purpose of this policy is anything that is, looks like, or might look like it is dangerous to anyone when viewed up to 20 feet away in poor light. The skill or training of the person in possession of said item is irrelevant. Any actual ineffectiveness of the item in question is irrelevant. If a police officer could think it is a weapon at 20 feet in the dark then it falls under this policy. If there is a reasonable chance the item may cause harm, or could be used to cause harm, on accident or on purpose, or make a person reasonably believe they may come to harm it also falls under this policy.
Purchasing a weapon
All weapons sales must follow Federal, State and Local laws and statutes. Weapons MAY NOT be sold to minors. All weapons sold must be in a box, bag or other device rendering it ineffective and inaccessable and remain within applicable laws for concealed weapons. They may not be carried around loose. If this is not reasonable, please contact a Rover or other appropriate staff member to resolve the situation before completion of the sale.
If a weapon is purchased at a Fanime event, you have 3 choices:
1: Remove it from the convention-occupied space immediately.
2: Put it in your Hotel room or other personally secured space such as a car.
3: If it follows the other guidlines, have it peace bonded and show it off. OOOHH pretty.
Carrying a weapon
All weapon pieces that are carried, either in hand or on/in a costume must be approved by appropriate convention personal.This can be done at a designated peace-bonding area or the Rover office on the second floor of the Marriott hotel. It is the Possessor's responsibility to do this as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in the forfeiture of convention membership. Any item that can not be peace bonded to the satisfaction of convention personel MAY NOT BE CARRIED. This decision is up to the individual Fanime staff, and is not negotiable. In case of any dispute, consult with Rovers leadership.
Fanime understands the desire to pose for pictures and show off your costume. Heck, we want to see it too. However, it is Fanime's policy that at no time in a public area may a weapon be brandished. This is a common sense rule. Obviously, in a designated photo area reasonable posing may happen. It is never acceptable, for example, to stop in the middle of a hall and brandish a weapon. Someone may walk into your item and poke themselves. Or, by not understanding the situation, react as though your action is a threat to public safety. This is bad, and thats why we don't allow it.
In order for an item to be approved for peace-bonding it must be significant to the costume being worn. No costume is still no costume. You walking around with a Katana is not a costume. The convention is not an excuse to walk around armed.
Peace Bonding:
Who:
Any convention attendee who wishes to carry item(s) that would fit this policy's definition of a weapon must have the item(s) peace bonded. This is regardless of any training, credintals, age, maturity, or status as a general member, staff member, or guest.
What:
Peace Bonding is the proccess of the attachment of brightly colored "zip ties" to a weapon or prop. This process may only be done by trained convention personnel. Staff members will atempt ensure the peace bond does not damage the prop/weapon. It is the responsibility of the weapon carrier to assist in this process and politely point out concerns in this area.
Even if the item is not attached to anything it must be peace bonded. For example, a 6 foot staff, a 10 foot sword etc. This will let staff know that you understand and agree with the policy as stated or amended.
When:
Peace Bonding must be done as soon as possible after entering convention-occupied space. This includes all public hallways of the hotels, anywhere in the convention center, the Civic Center and any space set asside for convetion use.
Where:
Please go directly to either the Rovers office or the peacebonding table on the main convention center concourse and one of our trained staffers will be pleased to assist you in taking care of this matter.
Check the program guide for a complete list of peacebonding locations or check at a Convention Info booth for more current information.
Why:
See above and, in many cases, it also can keep others from easly grabbing your weapon and using it inappropriately. Peace Bonding also serves as a reminder that you may not brandish the item.
How:
For Peace Bonding, members must go to a designated area and speak with a trained staff member. Peace Bonding must be done each year as the policy may change from year to year. It also must be done each time the peace bonding is removed.
You may not peace bond your own weapon.
More information on Peace Bonding may be found in the FAQ available online and at Rovers and the convention Information Booth. Performers in CosPlay or for a convention sponsored event may seek special arrangements. For additional information and assistance, please speak with your convention contact, CosPlay personnel, or come to Rovers.
In short:
Anything that falls under this policy's definition of weapon needs to be peace bonded at all times. Items that fall under this policy's definition of a weapon and which are deemed not acceptable to be peace bonded by approved convetnion personel may not be carried/worn or displayed in convention space.
Remember, you are responsible for your weapon at all times.
i understand most of this policy. but just to completely clarify so i don't get in trouble i would like to ask this
the prop guns for my costume are airsoft guns. if the clips are empty and they have the blaze orange tip at the end of the barrel, clearly visible, as well as other then for pictures in designated areas they will remain in the hollsters at my hips, well secured and buckled in safely, are they still concidered harmful enough to need peace bonding?
Quote from: Nezumii understand most of this policy. but just to completely clarify so i don't get in trouble i would like to ask this
the prop guns for my costume are airsoft guns. if the clips are empty and they have the blaze orange tip at the end of the barrel, clearly visible, as well as other then for pictures in designated areas they will remain in the hollsters at my hips, well secured and buckled in safely, are they still concidered harmful enough to need peace bonding?
Here is a response directly from FanimeCon. If you would like to reach the staffer who wrote this message, send me a PM and I will send you his contact information. Thanks! :) ~MarisaResponse:
Thank for spending the time to email and ask. If everyone were as considerate as you this job would be much easier. I am sorry for the delay in this responce. I was running it by some staff members to make sure we were all on the same page. To be honest, Air Soft guns are one of the reasons we have the policy set up like we do. I can start by saying that if the weapon is only slung or hand carried then it is a problem. The orange tip, while required by law, really does nothing. I have seen real guns painted all sorts of colours.
If the weapons are holstered then they can be peace bonded INTO the holster. This will keep you, or anyone, from being able to draw the weapon at any time. This can be adjusted for CosPlay [Masquerade] and judging (see the Masquerade info (http://www.fanime.com/bb/viewtopic.php?t=4554)). I understand this is a bit harsh. Most of my personal costumes include many weapons. I would not be able to use any of my costumes under this policy.
I can tell you that if we have the man power to do so, we will put staff members with the training to do peace bonding around the designated photo areas. These staff members would be able to remove your peace bonding and then put a new one on after the pictures. These staff members should also be able to control and crowd control issues.
Please understand that our problem is not with you. The convention center is considered public space. If someone walking by sees a person draw a gun and does understand the context then panics and calls the cops - we have a problem. From a distance, it is impossible to tell if the gun is loaded or not; real or not. We also need to keep the same policy in all convention space, including the hotels.
I hope this does not impact your enjoyment of the convention significantly. I truly understand the enjoyment of costumes. Please understand that much thought, time and discussion has gone into this policy. We do try to give our attendees as much freedom as we reasonably can.
Again, thank you for trying to clarify the situation. I/we are willing to work with you and try to come up with something we can all live with. Please feel free to email me back, or if you are local, we can arrange to meet at a staff meeting before the con.
Ok, I think this is going to affect my costume so I want to clarify to make absolutly sure. I'm going to dress as Inuyasha and was planning on bringing a katana that was completly ground down so it had no edge or point whatsoever. From what I read this would still be against the rules cause it looks like a weapon. Is this correct? If so I would like to run two other options by you. 1. I also have access to the handle of a katana that only has an inch or so of metal for the blade...I cut the rest off and ground down the remaining surfaces. Of course this would be strictly in the sheath prop cause it would just be weird to pose with a handle :). and 2nd I might be able to find an already super sized tetsuiga made from something that's not metal. Even though it has a basic sword shape would it meet the guidelines?
Thanks,
Swordman
Quote from: swordman85Ok, I think this is going to affect my costume so I want to clarify to make absolutly sure. I'm going to dress as Inuyasha and was planning on bringing a katana that was completly ground down so it had no edge or point whatsoever. From what I read this would still be against the rules cause it looks like a weapon. Is this correct? If so I would like to run two other options by you. 1. I also have access to the handle of a katana that only has an inch or so of metal for the blade...I cut the rest off and ground down the remaining surfaces. Of course this would be strictly in the sheath prop cause it would just be weird to pose with a handle :). and 2nd I might be able to find an already super sized tetsuiga made from something that's not metal. Even though it has a basic sword shape would it meet the guidelines?
Thanks,
Swordman
Answer from Conops:
As long as we can secure the ground katana into the scabbard and you
are willing to leave it in there, then that is fine.
So as long as the "weapon" is peace bonded, its ok?
A quick question concerning Holstered Guns.
I have a airsoft that will be holstered but will have no bbs, no clip inserted, and the battery slot lid will be left opened at all times. Is this deemed acceptable to wear or am I going to have to have it out of sights because my costume is based on a police officer's uniform.
I have a question regarding swords. I know metal swords are not allowed (unless peace-bonded into the sheath), but what is the policy involving custom-made, wooden swords? Currently, I have a sword being commissioned out of wood for my Kurogane cosplay because I would like to use it in photos (aka out of the sheath). Will that be ok?
I have the same question as Evangelion Xgouki - my sword will be completely made out of wood, except for the leather sheath. Will it still be required to be peace-bonded?
Also, if there isn't a away to peace-bond it to the sheath, what do you do? Peace-bonde the weaponry to the cosplayer's clothes?
Ok so If I let the ground katana be peacebonded in the sheath will I still be able to take it out for photo ops?
Thanks,
Swordman
Quote from: MisakiFan41A quick question concerning Holstered Guns.
I have a airsoft that will be holstered but will have no bbs, no clip inserted, and the battery slot lid will be left opened at all times. Is this deemed acceptable to wear or am I going to have to have it out of sights because my costume is based on a police officer's uniform.
it's probably the same for your airsoft gun as it is for mine. you will have to get it peace bonded to the holster. however i have been told that at the designated photo stations there will be con ops and peace bonders who will cut the bonding for the picture and then re-bond the weapon after words.
so in short, yes, you will need to get it peace bonded, but you can still take it out for photo opportunities and such in the proper designated areas.
Quote from: swordman85Ok so If I let the ground katana be peacebonded in the sheath will I still be able to take it out for photo ops?
Thanks,
Swordman
Obviously your question was already answered with a "yes". :roll:
I'm bringing a sword that will have to be peace bonded into the sheath. I'm assuming that the peace bonds are like zip ties. Does anone know how long they will be? There's only one place on my sword that can be bonded, but it's a little ways down the sheath.
I will be making two wooden keyblades for my cosplay, would that be acceptable?
Quote from: Itachi no JutsuI will be making two wooden keyblades for my cosplay, would that be acceptable?
Yes I was wondering the same, would keyblades be okay?
Quote from: The High Summoner YunaQuote from: Itachi no JutsuI will be making two wooden keyblades for my cosplay, would that be acceptable?
Yes I was wondering the same, would keyblades be okay?
I'm presuming by these you mean the Kingdom Hearts stuff? If so, not a problem, these are perfectly OK.
I plan on making a monk staff/slingshot as part of my costume, is their anything I need to or have to do to make it so I can bring it in?
ok i have a question about the sword im going to be using. I'm cosplaying as Renji from Bleach and my sword is going to be in its shikai form. if you havent seen the anime, it basically has these spike looking things coming out from one side of the blade. my sword is made entirely out of wood, and the "spikes" are blunt and sanded down so they won't hurt anybody. is this still acceptable for peacebonding, since i wont be able to sheath it?
Quote from: Yukari Kaibaok i have a question about the sword im going to be using. I'm cosplaying as Renji from Bleach and my sword is going to be in its shikai form. if you havent seen the anime, it basically has these spike looking things coming out from one side of the blade. my sword is made entirely out of wood, and the "spikes" are blunt and sanded down so they won't hurt anybody. is this still acceptable for peacebonding, since i wont be able to sheath it?
It should be, but check with the rovers @ the convention.
Quote from: angeljibrilleQuote from: Yukari Kaibaok i have a question about the sword im going to be using. I'm cosplaying as Renji from Bleach and my sword is going to be in its shikai form. if you havent seen the anime, it basically has these spike looking things coming out from one side of the blade. my sword is made entirely out of wood, and the "spikes" are blunt and sanded down so they won't hurt anybody. is this still acceptable for peacebonding, since i wont be able to sheath it?
It should be, but check with the rovers @ the convention.
ok - thanks for the advice ^^
Quote from: MisakiFan41A quick question concerning Holstered Guns.
I have a airsoft that will be holstered but will have no bbs, no clip inserted, and the battery slot lid will be left opened at all times. Is this deemed acceptable to wear or am I going to have to have it out of sights because my costume is based on a police officer's uniform.
I actually have to agree with his question because my costume sort of runs the same premise though the weapon I used last time was peace bonded at 2005's con.
ok wait, one question,
Are airsoft guns and absolute "No" or as long as there Peace'd in the holster they are fine?
I just wanna make sure I understand this completely so I dont do something stupid.
Okay,
Lots of if's here, but I think you will be fine:
IF the item is in a holster and can be peace-bonded so it can NOT be drawn. and
IF this item is not loaded
IF it can NOT be made shoot a leathal object at any time
IF the person peace-bonding does not have an objection because of something not covered, this item can be allowed.
However, we ask that at NO time you draw the weapon. IF you must do it for some pictures, please let a Rover know so he can re-peacebond it. Our issue is with people walking by, not understand the context, and raising a fuss.
Please feel free to direct any more question to me or let me know they are here. I am not very good at watching the boards.
Wolfgang
Dir. Operations
Fanime '06
Just to clarify ....Can we bring real swords? and get them peace bond? Because Im going hisagi shuuhei from bleach :?: and I have no other way of finding a prop T__T I wonder if it's okay ...O_o?
I asked this question in the other pre-official weapons policy thread, and I really don't want to get in trouble so I guess I'll ask here too.
I'm planning on cosplaying as Haku from Naruto and I'll be using double-pointed knitting needles as props. They're pretty blunt though still pointy. I mean...if I really, really, really tried I could stab someone with them. (but then again, you could do that with pencils and such too) I'd only be using them for poses. Are they okay or should I just not bring them?
Quote from: wirewolf6Just to clarify ....Can we bring real swords? and get them peace bond? Because Im going hisagi shuuhei from bleach :?: and I have no other way of finding a prop T__T I wonder if it's okay ...O_o?
http://fanime.com/cosplay/weapons_policy.html
All weapon pieces that are carried, either in hand or on/in a costume must be approved by appropriate convention personnel. Anything that looks like a real firearm or could hurt someone by accident (dulled metal swords, etc) can not be hand carried or slung over the shoulder. It must be able to be put into a holster or scabbard and peace bonded there. This can be done at a designated peace-bonding area or the Rover office on the second floor of the Marriott hotel. It is the Possessor's responsibility to do this as soon as possible. Failure to do so may result in the forfeiture of convention membership. Any item that can not be peace bonded to the satisfaction of convention personel MAY NOT BE CARRIED. This decision is up to the individual Fanime staff, and is not negotiable. In case of any dispute, consult with Rovers leadership.
Quote from: di3m05I asked this question in the other pre-official weapons policy thread, and I really don't want to get in trouble so I guess I'll ask here too.
I'm planning on cosplaying as Haku from Naruto and I'll be using double-pointed knitting needles as props. They're pretty blunt though still pointy. I mean...if I really, really, really tried I could stab someone with them. (but then again, you could do that with pencils and such too) I'd only be using them for poses. Are they okay or should I just not bring them?
http://fanime.com/cosplay/weapons_policy.html
Even if the item is not attached to anything it must be peace bonded. For example, a 6 foot staff, a 10 foot sword etc. This will let staff know that you understand and agree with the policy as stated or amended.
I'm bringing a first aid kit as part of my costume. Will I have to do anything about the surgical scissors in the kit?
Quote from: TetsunaiI'm bringing a first aid kit as part of my costume. Will I have to do anything about the surgical scissors in the kit?
...?
I think we may be getting silly here people...
The answer is:
"If in doubt, go get it checked by the rovers and have it peacebonded."
That's my final answer, I'm going to be too busy doing stuff in prep for the convetnion to answer any further weapons quesions.
Once again: "If in doubt, go get it checked by the rovers and have it peacebonded."
Thanks,
Marisa
Okay, I don't know if this is okay, and I'm sorry if poeple have asked already but...is it okay for me to bring a weapon I bought outside of fanime, like before the con, just as long as I have it peace-bonded as soon as I arrive at the con?
Quote from: MegumiOkay, I don't know if this is okay, and I'm sorry if poeple have asked already but...is it okay for me to bring a weapon I bought outside of fanime, like before the con, just as long as I have it peace-bonded as soon as I arrive at the con?
"If in doubt, go get it checked by the rovers and have it peacebonded."
My g/f is going to be an Acolyte from RO, and she plans on carrying a chain with her (as in a chain attached to a wooden handle).
Picture:
http://roempire.com/database/images/items/big/Chain.gif
Since the chain is made of metal, what's the rule on this weapon? And if the metal chain can't be used, what's an alternative?
Stupid question. As I will be cosplaying as Bleach's Urahara, would his cane count as a weapon or would I be in the clear?
I wanted to ask if I made a dull sword out of wood and had two tiny thin strips of metal wrapped around the handle also dull to hold the fabric wrapped around it would this be ok? Thank you for your time.
Quote from: ZETA SHINTANiMy g/f is going to be an Acolyte from RO, and she plans on carrying a chain with her (as in a chain attached to a wooden handle).
Picture:
http://roempire.com/database/images/items/big/Chain.gif
Since the chain is made of metal, what's the rule on this weapon? And if the metal chain can't be used, what's an alternative?
A friend of mine used a plastic chain (black) that he painted chrome, that might be allowed over a metal one if they don't allow it.
I will be making the costume so I can switch out the chain if I need to. Thank you for the advise. :)
im going as a mix between Vash the Stampede and Sora (from Kingdom Hearts 2), and i was going to make a keyblade gun, kindof like the gunblade (FFVIII). i was wondering if i need to have a sheath for it? it is going to be wood and PVC pipe, with an airsoft gun the has working mechanisms but would not fire anything, with its barrel nestled into the shaft of the sword. i dont know if it would need to be peacebonded, or sheathed. help?
QuoteStupid question. As I will be cosplaying as Bleach's Urahara, would his cane count as a weapon or would I be in the clear?
It should be fine, just don't hit anyone on the head with it, swing it around, etc.
QuoteI wanted to ask if I made a dull sword out of wood and had two tiny thin strips of metal wrapped around the handle also dull to hold the fabric wrapped around it would this be ok? Thank you for your time.
That would most likely have to be secured to your costume in some way. I'm not entirely sure how the strips of metal on your prop work though, so I'm not sure if they'd be an issue.
Quoteim going as a mix between Vash the Stampede and Sora (from Kingdom Hearts 2), and i was going to make a keyblade gun, kindof like the gunblade (FFVIII). i was wondering if i need to have a sheath for it? it is going to be wood and PVC pipe, with an airsoft gun the has working mechanisms but would not fire anything, with its barrel nestled into the shaft of the sword. i dont know if it would need to be peacebonded, or sheathed. help?
That doesn't seem like it would resemble a firearm, so that part shouldn't be a problem. In that case, it's treated pretty much like a sword in that it would be peacebonded to your costume. If it's oversized so it can't comfortably be worn, it'll probably just be tagged and basic common sense applies (don't sling it over your shoulder, swing it around, etc.). A keyblade-gun sounds like it shouldn't be too much of a 'weapon' so it shouldn't be too big of an issue hopefully.
As for the RO chain, they might secure it to the costume somehow, but I can't think of anything else, especially if it's a plastic chain.
-----
As always, don't take anything I say as a 100% official statement. In the end, the final call on how to deal with weapon props is at the discretion of the con operators. I'm just passing on what I kinda get from various staff meetings to the best of my ability.
In general what I've heard regarding the weapons policy is that:
There are no major changes from the 2006 policy.
Staff-like props will not be attached, but they cannot be slung over the shoulder. They must be carried in a vertical position.
All other weapons must be attached to a costume. If there is not an actual costume to go with the weapon-prop, it must be returend to a room/car/etc.
No paddles are allowed.
There is talk about a possible new prop-ID method to supplement the peace bonding that involves a special mark on a guest's Fanime admission card. However, that is still up in the air as to wether it'll even go through, and I don't know the specifics of it.
If there are any more questions, please ask away and I'll bring them up at the next meeting. If you have a question about a specific weapon, please include some pictures of the prop in question.
Hope that helps!
Two of my cosplays have an guns as props with no holsters. Most photos or me walking around the con would be me holding the guns. If I can somehow prove that the guns are safe, can you guys do something like... tie the triggers or something when they're empty, or something?
I know this sucks, but....no. They'd have to be holstered.
Tying down the triggers doesn't do much to change the appearance of the prop.
You might get away with just attaching them to your costume so they can't be brandished. It still sucks for posing, but at least you could have them on hand. I'll double check on the policy for dealing with firearm-props without holsters at the next meeting.
Quote from: trooper715QuoteStupid question. As I will be cosplaying as Bleach's Urahara, would his cane count as a weapon or would I be in the clear?
It should be fine, just don't hit anyone on the head with it, swing it around, etc.
Ah, thank you.
I was wondering, what about carrying around a hammer, as in a carpenter's claw hammer? Would that be allowed, have to be peacebonded, etc.? It kinda falls under the same heading as a Winry cosplayer carrying around a real wrench.
Hmm...That sounds like it'd be pretty much up the discretion of the department head. So for that one, if you could wait a little while, I'll ask at the next staff meeting what the policy is about things such as tools.
I remember seeing some of the wrenches for Winry cosplays being just marked with a zip tie but not secured to the costume. But that was back in 2005 and the department head has changed since then.
No problem waiting, thank you in advance for asking. I'll just make sure to check back, and at least with a hammer it's not like you spend months constructing it only to have it be disallowed.
I was wondering, does a wooden bokken count as a weapon? I'm planning on bringing one for my cosplay, and I was just wondering if it's considered a weapon or not.
Yes, wooden bokken counts as a weapon and would need to be secured appropriately.
Ah, I knew it. Thanks.
Call me stupid if someone's already asked, but...
Is carrying around a rod made out of really light wood still considered dangerous and needed to be peace-bonded?
Hm....I can't say for sure. It'd be someone's judgement call, so I'd reccomend taking it to conops and having them check it out.
If it's a large sized rod (i.e. a staff), it will be tagged with a zip tie but you can carry it around, just be careful not to sling it over your shoulder.
I don't know why, but I have a mental image of a giant popsicle stick or something.
Bah, sorry I can't be more help on that one.
If you have an image or maybe could elaborate a little bit more I might be able to ask at the next staff meeting and come up with a clearer answer.
just so I'm clear on this.
If it has the appearance of a sword, or other such easily identified weapon, it's to be piece-bonded. Such as a bokken or home made wooden or plastic sword.
If it's something like a Kingdom Hearts Keyblade, which is more of an oversized key rather than a sword or such, it should be ok to just carry as long as it isn't used to hit people.
i have a question
is my temari fan or my urahara cane considered weapons?
Moving my question from a different thread...
Is it ok for me to carry around a small wooden deck brush? It's not too heavy...
Hey, I just want to apoligize for the slow reply. The department head was not at the staff meeting last saturday so I couldn't get any answers to your questions, and it appears that he will actually not be at meetings until May 19.
In order to get an answer to all of you sooner, I will try contacting him via e-mail, but as some of you who may have tried that route know that sometime's it's hard to elict a response through the interwebs.
But I'm working on it!
Some quick, unofficial responses going off of what's been discussed in previous meetings:
QuoteIf it has the appearance of a sword, or other such easily identified weapon, it's to be piece-bonded. Such as a bokken or home made wooden or plastic sword.
Correct.
Going off the 2006 policy which is pretty much what we're sticking to for 2007:
QuoteThe definition of a weapon for the purpose of this policy is anything that is, looks like, or might look like it is dangerous to anyone when viewed up to 20 feet away in poor light.
Going off that definition, a deck brush, oversized fan, and cane should not be considered weapons.
A giant keyblade should also be fine.
And again, the hammer I can't really make a good call on.
However, the final call is up to the head of the Rover department, which as I noted, I unfortunately could not get ahold of. =| As always, it is better to err on the side of caution and make a short 5 minute trip to the Rover office while at the con just so if anyone asks you can show you got an 'Okay' on your item. If you don't, a staff member may request that you get an item checked out at a later point in time, as aside from simply appearance, issues about construction such as metal or sharp pointy objects may need to be considered.
You never know. If a higher-up staff member feels there's a danger of someone poking someone's eye out with a giant key...then you need to get it checked out.
In the cases of oversized items that qualify as weapons, such as say, one of those wonderfully large and impracitcal anime swords or staff-like objects, they will be tagged and you will be reminded to make sure you are in control of your item and not accidently bopping people over the head or poking them in the eye with your giant stick of doom.
QuoteEven if the item is not attached to anything it must be peace bonded. For example, a 6 foot staff, a 10 foot sword etc. This will let staff know that you understand and agree with the policy as stated or amended.
Smaller sized items that qualify as a weapon will be secured to a costume so that they cannot be brandished about.
And as always, anything that resembles a firearm is a big no-no.
Again, I apoligize for my inability to get a definitive official answer, but I hope my responses help some of you feel at least a little more confident that you will not show up at Fanime only to be forced to walk around all day with a giant fan or key zip tied to your body.
trooper715, you may know the answer. Is ConOps going to open on Thursday during PreReg? If yes, can they check and peacebond weapons. I need get my Bleach sword checked and peacebonded. Thanks.
Sorry about reviving an old topic, but..
For my costume i have a lance constructed out of aluminum sheet metal, it has a plastic tip and is about as dangerous as a slice of bread soaked in gravy.
Would the fact that its contructed out of sheet metal matter as long as its absolutely non-leathal without any sharp edges or pointy areas.
Can be seen here without cap:
http://i104.photobucket.com/albums/m193/The_Desert_Punk/Arthur/102_0350.jpg
Only 5 hours old, ain't it cute?
i got another question so if i had 10 plastic samurai swords would i have to get all of them piece tied?
If you can peace bond an air soft gun to the holster, why wasn't I given that option? I was told to put it away or it'll be taken away. In my opinion, the rules become more unclear every year. *boot to the head* to those who can't keep the rules straight. Enough said..
Just to clarify- something like a 10-foot wooden sword, still has to be peace bonded, but will not be attached to the costume?
What's the weapons policy on a bow that I would only be stringing if I was asked to take pictures? Its like three to four feet. No projectiles of course.
<.< >.> <.< I'm not staff, but I can share personal experience from last year.
A) The rules are based on judgement, and everyone's judgement is different--and sometimes the same person will change their mind from year to year based on what they've seen happen.
B) My friend was last year's most popular Sephiroth. ^_^ (it's the wig, I tell you!) He had a 6 foot real sword and was made to tie it to his back as well as the regular zip-ties. It messed up his costume and made walking awkward, especially since the sword is longer than he is tall, but it was the only way they'd let him carry it around. He once drew it, out in front, to help make a video, but since got in mass tons of trouble because that violates California law.
C) I also saw ten-foot cardboard Inuyasha swords. :D Honestly, how can you secure that to a costume? It's huge! But they were still peace-bonded to remind the owners not to bop people on the head with them.
D) Last year I carried a wooden baseball bat... That's a weapon, my friends, 3-4 feet long. They peace-bonded it only after a lively debate among the staff and a LOT of questions about whether I could possibly, in any way at all, wear it as a costume piece instead of carrying it. I think the deciding factor was that I have a bad leg and mostly use it as a cane. XP Not sure if they'll let me do that two years in a row (which would suck, because I'd have to use the stupid crutches, but there you have it).
Quote from: ArynChris on February 09, 2008, 10:47:33 PM
<.< >.> <.< I'm not staff, but I can share personal experience from last year.
A) The rules are based on judgement, and everyone's judgement is different--and sometimes the same person will change their mind from year to year based on what they've seen happen.
B) My friend was last year's most popular Sephiroth. ^_^ (it's the wig, I tell you!) He had a 6 foot real sword and was made to tie it to his back as well as the regular zip-ties. It messed up his costume and made walking awkward, especially since the sword is longer than he is tall, but it was the only way they'd let him carry it around. He once drew it, out in front, to help make a video, but since got in mass tons of trouble because that violates California law.
C) I also saw ten-foot cardboard Inuyasha swords. :D Honestly, how can you secure that to a costume? It's huge! But they were still peace-bonded to remind the owners not to bop people on the head with them.
D) Last year I carried a wooden baseball bat... That's a weapon, my friends, 3-4 feet long. They peace-bonded it only after a lively debate among the staff and a LOT of questions about whether I could possibly, in any way at all, wear it as a costume piece instead of carrying it. I think the deciding factor was that I have a bad leg and mostly use it as a cane. XP Not sure if they'll let me do that two years in a row (which would suck, because I'd have to use the stupid crutches, but there you have it).
Ah, yes. My Kevin and that wig. I had to cut it up....@.@ It was so dead....so now it's my Kadaj wig! Oh, are you planning on going to Fanime, then, Fountain?
And Kevin's in Colorado now, so I'm moving in a few days.
erm, question.
I'm going as Reno from FF7 AC...and his weapon is a nightstick. Now, i'm going to be making mine out of a plastic lightsaber and spray painting it. As it's a hand held prop, would that cause a problem or should I fashion a holster for it?
I'd be safe and make a holster, just in case.
If I had a wooden Master Sword that was rounded at the edges, would that be acceptable? ???
OK since peace bonding has been increasingly becoming more and more silly every year I thought it would be appropriate to show that ALL ANIME CONS MUST RELAX ABOUT WEAPON POLICY. Even the penny arcade guys had problems this past sakura con.
(from http://www.penny-arcade.com/2008/04/02/)
Nested Ironies
Wednesday, April 2 2008 - 12:00 AM
by: Tycho
I don't have solid data, just my own year-to-year experience, but it feels like gaming cosplay has been on the rise since we first started attending Sakuracon. The Team Fortress 2 crews you've seen showcased on the gaming blogs are one of the newer ones, but Valve seemed to rule the crossover space this year: there were several Chells as well, as well as Aperture Science Technicians, their Weighted Companion Cubes in tow. These cubes were sometimes literally in tow, hoisted up on crates for easy transport. There was even a GlaDOS.
I kept my distance.
The more insular the group, the richer the jargon - Scientology is the ultimate example, of course, but strange things grow in any hidden place. I always thought bedwarming had a nice ring, for example. I have actively tried to mill lingo useful and appropriate to the gamer consciousness from the moment this venue became operational. Anime culture obviously has a lot of Japanese cross-pollination, so many of the words I learn at these things (like "hakama") just mean "hat" or something. But there is also con specific language that deals with particular customs, like Peacebonding.
When a weapon is peacebound, it is marked with a pink ribbon that substantially diminishes its drama and gravity. This signifies that you have entered into a contract with the convention not to draw steel and gut another attendee. This is solid policy, and we support it, because we bring our guts with us to this show. The policy continues: you can kill a person with almost anything, if you really put your mind to it. Technically true, but but now things are a little scary. Now you're starting to consider the very real danger you are always in. It gets lighthearted again quick, though, because you realize that the policy is being applied to virtually any object, granting it a malevolent connotation. When Robert was serving up ice cream, I noticed that they had peacebound his ice cream scoop. I saw one grimoire with the pink strip applied, which - given its perpetually shrieking cover - seemed pretty sensible. But a medic's healing gun? A weapon that "shoots" life? No, now we've come full circle. The train has left the station, and is en route to Crazytown.
(CW)TB out.
(https://forums.fanime.com/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi147.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr307%2Fclawmaster_2006%2Fpennyarcade.jpg&hash=e3f9d8cc3c2628a5f820caf436393f09d9297e94)
and this is the penny arcade booth serving up ice cream with a peace bonded ice cream scooper.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KGw4pg3g2JU
i hope this wasn't asked before but 4 pages >>, any who Im going as Haku from Naruto and i have Senbon (basically kabob skewers) they are made of metal, would i have to have them peacebonded somehow or should i paint the tips a bright orange @_@, hope you can answer. thanks.
Quote from: clawmaster on April 03, 2008, 06:39:23 PM
OK since peace bonding has been increasingly becoming more and more silly every year I thought it would be appropriate to show that ALL ANIME CONS MUST RELAX ABOUT WEAPON POLICY. Even the penny arcade guys had problems this past sakura con.
The thing with peace bonding is any weapon-like prop has to be peace bonded, because that is an agreement between the convention and the attendee that they aren't going to be brandishing the prop, hitting people with it, etc. So yes, everything (even a healing gun) has to be peace bound in that respect. Where things start to get silly is when your props have to literally be bound
to you. There's no point in having the prop if you can't pose with it.
I personally like Sakura-con's prop policy, as it still allows stage (unsharpened) steel and even live (sharpened, with an edge, etc) steel if it is bound into a scabbard and can't be taken out without breaking the bond, and therefore con policy. Sakura-con also had peace binding forms for us to sign saying we were going to follow the rules of peace bonding and all, which legally covers them in the event of someone breaking the rules.
i am in agreement with the posing thing its getting out of hand if its wood your not alowd to have it not tatched to your body
i also agree that the weapons policy seems to be getting unclearer every year. last year was ridiculous - i had brought a katana to use for my Byakuya cosplay and had already taken the liberty myself of zip tying into the sheathe and was just hoping to get it zip tied again to show i agree to the weapons policy. but i ended up having it tied to my belt and it not only made for limited posing but made it very comfortable to sit.
Quote from: Trumby on April 04, 2008, 08:32:04 PM
Quote from: clawmaster on April 03, 2008, 06:39:23 PM
OK since peace bonding has been increasingly becoming more and more silly every year I thought it would be appropriate to show that ALL ANIME CONS MUST RELAX ABOUT WEAPON POLICY. Even the penny arcade guys had problems this past sakura con.
The thing with peace bonding is any weapon-like prop has to be peace bonded, because that is an agreement between the convention and the attendee that they aren't going to be brandishing the prop, hitting people with it, etc. So yes, everything (even a healing gun) has to be peace bound in that respect. Where things start to get silly is when your props have to literally be bound to you. There's no point in having the prop if you can't pose with it.
I personally like Sakura-con's prop policy, as it still allows stage (unsharpened) steel and even live (sharpened, with an edge, etc) steel if it is bound into a scabbard and can't be taken out without breaking the bond, and therefore con policy. Sakura-con also had peace binding forms for us to sign saying we were going to follow the rules of peace bonding and all, which legally covers them in the event of someone breaking the rules.
even a ice cream scooper?
FYI: http://www.fanime.com/about/policies
Its up now
ok so even if we have a sword peacebonded into the sheathe its still not ok? bummer D: now i have to go make a sword >< oh well.
oh so one of the things i have run across is if its made out of wood then you have to have it atatched to your person this goes for swords as i know but i have a stylus that is 3 feet long and made out of a wooden dowl will that have to be peace tied and if so atatched to my person? cuase that would realy just suck
Ok, so it looks like we won't need anything tied onto ourselves this year? As long as it's a fake sword/staff/whatever, or an obviously fake gun with bright colors, then we should feel free to walk around with them (with the little zip ties on) and pose with them?
So scabbard/holster not needed?
Quote from: clawmaster on April 05, 2008, 09:41:03 AM
Quote from: Trumby on April 04, 2008, 08:32:04 PM
Quote from: clawmaster on April 03, 2008, 06:39:23 PM
OK since peace bonding has been increasingly becoming more and more silly every year I thought it would be appropriate to show that ALL ANIME CONS MUST RELAX ABOUT WEAPON POLICY. Even the penny arcade guys had problems this past sakura con.
The thing with peace bonding is any weapon-like prop has to be peace bonded, because that is an agreement between the convention and the attendee that they aren't going to be brandishing the prop, hitting people with it, etc. So yes, everything (even a healing gun) has to be peace bound in that respect. Where things start to get silly is when your props have to literally be bound to you. There's no point in having the prop if you can't pose with it.
I personally like Sakura-con's prop policy, as it still allows stage (unsharpened) steel and even live (sharpened, with an edge, etc) steel if it is bound into a scabbard and can't be taken out without breaking the bond, and therefore con policy. Sakura-con also had peace binding forms for us to sign saying we were going to follow the rules of peace bonding and all, which legally covers them in the event of someone breaking the rules.
even a ice cream scooper?
If it were being used as a prop, yep. You could still do some damage with an ice cream scoop..as silly as that actually is <.<
Sad that I can't bring my rapier for my pirate costume (metal..but no edge) :(