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Post by rjodorizzi on Dec 30, 2010 15:14:37 GMT
Hello forum members. Just trying to decide which next sword to place at the top of my list so once again I must turn to those more wise then I to give me some advice.
The two blades i'm looking at are:
one of the Ronin Dojo Pro models OR Valiant Armoury Signature Crusader.
Now I know these are two VERY different swords and they each have things that I really like. I really like the valiant models and will get some eventually, but I'm not crazy about the hex-nut assembly.
The Ronin I love the look of, monosteel doesn't bother me at all, but I know almost nothing about them other then the reviews on SBG.
Thanks in advance for your help!
-R
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Luka
Senior Forumite
Posts: 2,848
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Post by Luka on Dec 30, 2010 15:24:41 GMT
About the hex nut system, a washer on my Hanwei GSoW locked somehow against the threaded tang and I had much problems taking it all apart... I really don't like these threaded systems and I plan to give my GSoW for customization involving a new pommel, cutting of the threaded part of the tang and good old peening...
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ghost
Member
Posts: 1,331
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Post by ghost on Dec 30, 2010 18:58:13 GMT
I have no idea about the Ronins but I have handled the crusader. It is one fast sword for it's length and is really smooth. I think Aaron and Sean think it is a tad bit too light. Marghus loved his as well. As far as the hex nut assembly on all the VA Sigs go -I love em. I think someone posted an image of how the hex nut assembly went inside part-way (maybe it was bb or gaffer?) They don't loosen up quickly at all and allow for quick and non-invasive customization. The only way to can redo a grip on a peened sword is to take off either the leather/cord somehow or destroy the grip core in the process of making a new one. With the VAs you could always design a new grip without even scratching the old one. Sonny's scabbards are way beyond phenomenal (if you have seen them firsthand...just wow) Unfortunately [for us] his sigs...actually most of his lines sell out completely in a couple months each production run. You may be in a 3-5 month wait. The Ronins have pretty close competitors in their price range... but nothing come close to the VA Sigs. Why not consider the Kris cutlery katanas? I am buying 1 while the shipping is still free. just my opinion  forgive me for the long rant. |
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Post by rjodorizzi on Dec 30, 2010 21:18:59 GMT
Not a long rant at all, thanks for all the info and a karma to you good sir!
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TomK
Member
Senior Forumite
Posts: 2,377
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Post by TomK on Dec 31, 2010 0:12:03 GMT
I really liked the Ronin Katana Dojo Pro #6 I had the chance to review. it was authoritative without being heavy and while not really quick it certainly wasn't slow either. a nice middle of the road balanced performer. where the Ronin Katana swords really shine I think is in their fittings, fit, and attention to detail. it made me so sad to have to abuse that sword for the review I almost cried, but it was given to me free for a review and Paul wanted me to push its limits so I did. it survived well and remains serviceable but it has loosened up a little. mostly just the kashira got a little loose and rattles slightly but not that you'd notice if it wasn't so nicely tight to begin with, I've seen lots of swords come out of the box with looser kashira than this one has right now.
I have not handled the Signature Crusader but I have handled the at 303 which uses the same blade and it is a super light super fast and very sharp sword. I personally like the hex nut system and many of my own swords use it. I never have trouble with them coming loose or getting stuck but maybe I've been lucky. usually what happens is the sword arrives tight, then after some cutting and adjusting to the new climate it sometimes gets a little loose so I tighten it up and then it is fine pretty much for ever. I wouldn't worry about the hex nut, you can even hide it with a roofing nail to make it look peened, just clip the nail short so it fits in the hex hole and stick it in with a little silicone.
so how should you decide which to get? I think you should look at your current collection and how you cut most often and get the sword that is least well represented in your collection.
they really are both wonderful swords so you won't be making the wrong choice either way.
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forgive me for the long rant.
