Other Experiences

To be fair, I've crossed many other times when no issue was made of my weapons. Many times I had answered yes when asked about weapons, and shown both the dagger and the billy club. Every single time I was allowed to continue with my items.

One time I was advised by the customs officer to put the dagger in the trunk because Ontario Police would consider it a concealed weapon if it was discovered within easy reach of the driver or any other occupant. I've since discovered that most jurisdictions would consider it such, and so now such items are safely locked in the trunk, making the world a safer place for would-be car jackers.

One time (before 2001) I was returning from a camping trip with two 5 ft long wooden hiking sticks in the back seat. I was sent for secondary and the customs officer (I would swear it was officer 12078) saw them and nearly had a heart attack. He demanded in a rather angry voice to know what they were used for, and I told him. I also told him I had a tire iron in the trunk.

Now I usually travel with a machete (work tool) and would only volunteer the information if asked if I have any knives. If asked if I have any weapons, I of course would answer no.

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