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Post by Deleted on May 13, 2009 0:59:39 GMT
I have been waiting patiently for a new katana blade to be made for me. My wait is almost over and I hope to receive it soon.
I know that James Raw has a "budget" reputation and many people have inquired if there is another source for blades in a similar price range. I believe that I have found one.
The Dragonfly Forge run by master sword smith Michael Bell also runs a training school for apprentices. I was given the name of an up-and-coming apprentice who seems to produce fine work for a reasonable price.
The blade is made of twist-forged cable steel. The one made for me is shinogi-zukuri, 29" with o-kissaki and 7/8" tori-sori. Normally Dragonfly Forge charges $75 an inch for such a blade but I was able to negotiate a very attractive price directly with the full-time apprentice with 5 years of daily training.
The blade was made under supervision from Michael Bell and I have been told that Michael said that the blade was "near perfect" to his standards, a very high compliment.
The apprentice has given me permission to pass his name to anyone who is interested in having a blade made. He makes only blades with traditional geometry.
The blade will require a professional polish and mounting so I expect an additional $2000 or so for finishing the project, but if anyone is interested, I will post pictures of the blade when I receive it.
Please send a PM if you would like contact information.
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Post by Deleted on May 13, 2009 1:19:50 GMT
A bit out my price range (still a student so i have a small one ). But I'm really looking forward seeing pictures and maybe a review? of this sword I'm really curiuos about it. Hope it turns out great for you
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Post by wiwingti on May 13, 2009 8:22:05 GMT
price is really really too high for the economy.
my .02 cents
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Post by Deleted on May 13, 2009 23:32:37 GMT
sounds REAL interesting man. i cant wait to see your pics.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 1, 2009 18:23:31 GMT
I just got an update on my blade. It is packed and ready for shipment. I hope to receive it in about a week.
I will post pictures of it when I get it for the few that have expressed interest.
Maybe the economy in Alaska is different than the lower 48, but it seems a little odd that more people have not seemed interested in a new smith with pricing similar to James Raw, especially considering the unique cable steel that these blades are made of. As for myself, I am excited to see my project go forward.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 1, 2009 18:50:22 GMT
Sounds very interesting. I'll be looking forward to some pics also.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 1, 2009 19:01:13 GMT
As will I; sounds like you got a decent deal. $75/inch, eh? That's pretty hefty.
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Post by randomnobody on Jun 1, 2009 19:20:54 GMT
Maybe the economy in Alaska is different than the lower 48, but it seems a little odd that more people have not seemed interested in a new smith with pricing similar to James Raw, especially considering the unique cable steel that these blades are made of. As for myself, I am excited to see my project go forward. Eh, the economy pretty much sucks everywhere. Though my financial distress isn't a result of the economy. No, it's my inability to stop spending every dime I get. Bah, money only has value in circulation, anyway. I'm no fan of twisted cable in katana, but I was rather impressed with the Sorrels (I'm sure I've spelled that wrong) blade slavia631 picked up, selling his self-mounted Rawblade to pay for it. At any rate, I'm just not taken by the idea or the look. $75/inch is a bit much to pay for an apprentice who shows promise to make a blade I don't really like, anyway. My Rawblade, though, well worth the excellent deal I got for it. Still, curious to see the pictures. Congrats on the blade, at any rate.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 1, 2009 19:59:37 GMT
As will I; sounds like you got a decent deal. $75/inch, eh? That's pretty hefty. $75/inch is hefty. That's why I was happy to get one at around half that price.
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Post by Deleted on Jun 1, 2009 21:58:57 GMT
im not gunna judge till i see some pics.
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Post by Ronin Katana on Jun 1, 2009 22:17:40 GMT
I enjoy checking out new customs. Looking forward to seeing what you had made.
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