Review - Scorpion Swords and Knives Resident Evil Machete
Feb 24, 2012 19:42:12 GMT
Post by Deleted on Feb 24, 2012 19:42:12 GMT
First time poster and beginning sword fan. (Pics will be taken and uploaded at a later date)
I bought this from KINK on this very forum. Very smooth transaction and nice guy.
Some background-
I have nearly zero experience with swords. I do like machetes and have done a lot of studying on the use of knives. I prefer hard use blades because I don't see the need for decorative pieces. If it can't be used for prolonged periods then I don't want it.
A little martial arts experience but nothing too intensive on the traditional swordplay ends.
I wanted to get a blade from Scorpion Swords because I needed to know how they feel and balance. Finding a second hand one was a golden opportunity I couldn't pass up.
Usual price is $239
Hand Stitched Black Leather Sheath $39
I paid about 190 including shipping with sheath.
Preface-
I am a huge Resident Evil fan and am excited about how this year there will be 3 new games coming out. I have always been a fan of the weapons and this year also marks the first time many people will be able to customize their own weapons IRL to fit the games aesthetics. Someone just started manufacturing Samurai Edge style grips for the Beretta 92. It takes a month but each set is handmade.
In the earlier Resident Evil games, the knife was a challenge item or something of last resort. Only the best of the best could use it to beat the game (just look up knife only runs and you'll see what I mean). The knife itself didn't have a lot of personality until later when HD remakes shed a little more light in the universe. Chris Redfield was using a hunting knife with a wider blade. He usually utilized slashing and hacking movements in its use. Jill Valentine utilized a thinner style survival knife. Her movements seem to emphasize stabbing and precision.
In Resident Evil 4, the knife had a much more significant role. Aside from being featured in a few CG fight scenes it also was used quite a bit in game play. It was always equipped without taking any inventory space. It could be drawn instantly. It was used to open boxes, slash enemies, and kill snakes. It's still the easiest way to kill Krauser in his final mutation. It's by far the coolest way to kill Sadler and El Gigante.
Leon was carrying a Mercworx Sniper during his mission but the blade would change into a jeweled switchblade if he wore his gangster outfit (bonus feature). I would love to own a Mercworx Sniper but I can't justify the price. Maybe I could get Scorpion Swords to make me something similar but made for my hand.
In RE5, Chris makes his way to Africa and utilizes the knife in the same ways as Leon did. RE5's motto seemed to be if it worked in RE4 then make it bigger and Michael Bay it. More enemies, more action, a *ahem* more muscular hero, a partner that does more, more guns, etc.
This brings us to the RE machete. It has been confirmed that Chris was using a Mercworx Goliath in RE5 and Sheva was using a combat Kukri. While kukris (kukrae?) are quite common and inexpensive the Mercworx Goliath is neither of those traits. After finding Scorpion Swords and comparing the stats on both, I think the RE Machete is a much better choice. It seems more in the spirit of survival to me even though RE5 was definitely no longer about survival. Getting my hands on it seemed to be the only way I could tell for sure...
Before it was received-
The machete was shipped from the UK and took a while to get here. Not the seller's fault. More the fault of USPS. The package was received and released by customs within 2 days of shipping. It took another 2 - 3 weeks to get to Washington from Florida. I can't explain that really.
The blade was well wrapped. The only improvement I can think of for the seller is to place it in a poster tube with lots of stiff padding (paper, bubble wrap, etc).
STATS-
Total Length = 24 ”
Blade Length = 18 ½ “
Blade Width = 2 3/8 ”
Blade Thickness = 3/16 “
Handle Length = 5 ½ ”
Handle Width = 1 ¼ “ x 1 1/8”
Handle: Walnut Wood. Scales attached with pins and glued.
Weight = 2 lbs 2 oz
Mercworx Goliath stats (for comparison)
Overall: 15 3/4”
Blade Length: 10 ½”
Blade Steel: S30V
Weight: 24oz.
Thickness: .250”
Initial impressions-
After opening it like a kid on Christmas I felt a little trepidation. It didn't feel heavy in the packaging so I thought that maybe it was going to be a little too light. It also seemed a little on the short side. Once I held it by the handle, I understood just how heavy duty it is. Deceptive how it feels really. It's like a machete short sword. Now I know it's a utilitarian tool!
The sheath seems to be able to handle its job. However, the tip of the sheath was all bent up (most likely due to shipping) and there was a hole where the tip of the blade stops within the sheath. I think a little support in a tube would have been sufficient to keep the sheath in shape. Unless it was like that before it was shipped.
Initial Inspection-
The blade was a bit on the blackened side. This was most likely from the leather sheath. Little flecks of black and seemed a little "sooty". After a little surface treatment with EEZOX (I live near the ocean so this is necessary) I was able to get the blade to a surprisingly shiny finish. I think it needs about two more treatments with EEZOX before I can leave it alone.
After the cleaning, I looked at machete closely and found some marks. I will post pics up later but I'm assuming these were from the handle and just how the metal is (in terms of properties).
Speaking of the handle, I love it! The wood looks great and I love how it completes the look of the machete. I didn't even realize there was a lanyard hold (because it's not important for me to have one on this particular piece) but now that I have held the machete a bit, I am glad it's there.
One air dry later and I was ready for some handling impressions.
Handling-
Heavy. That's the first word that came to mind. You know this thing was made to hack and chop. I haven't swung it enough to pinpoint where the balance point is (that and I'm at work right now) but I'm sure it's pretty forward of the handle.
Not the most agile machete I've handled but I don't think that's the point. This is definitely a power instrument. Besides, light and agile is better for knives (IMO).
You feel like if you swung this hard, there isn't much that would be left in its path.
The handle provides a nice ergonomic feel. I almost get the impression that this handle doesn't feel as bulky as the Goliath from comparing the pictures (I can't locate one of these knives, more or less find a way to handle one).
The handle seems to have three different ways I can hold it and I believe the index finger above the swell is the best for me. The lanyard hold portion of the grip is exposed steel and I immediately thought it would make a kind of pseudo hand guard (to my dismay). Boy was I wrong. It doesn't wrap as far as one would believe and it made me immediately think of Smatchet tactics from Rex Applegate. Excellent bonus.
I had no problems trying to attempt some Chinese sword style movements with it.
Blade-
The blade is sharp but not razor sharp. Not sure if it was originally this way or not but I have no complaints about it. Well ground blade and you can tell that some thought and craftsmanship went into its creation. Seems like it would an edge extremely well. Due to the fact that I probably won't be using it for precision cuts, the sharpness is perfect.
The tip is sharp and feels as though it won't bend easily. The fact that it survived 2 weeks with USPS alone makes me confident that it won't bend anytime soon unless I decide to smack it against other steels or stone.
Basic test-
I did not perform a paper cut test. I did try to stab it through paper and it went through with ZERO effort. Some knives I have to get a running start to penetrate with a stab. This was undoubtedly the easiest I have done this with a larger blade. 2nd easiest overall with the Ka-Bar tanto coming in first.
I do have a large TV BOX that I keep behind a couch. Not much windup is necessary to take chunks of cardboard out of the corner. A simple stab into the box went unobstructed. The only thing keeping me from pushing to the hilt was the Styrofoam insides. Without the Styrofoam, it's probably go all the way through and get lost inside somewhere.
No bottle testing or things like that. Don't have the outdoor space at the moment.
Final thoughts-
A very well made machete at a hard to beat price (even when not secondhand). A true workman's blade that was made with care. Ergonomic and perfect for its purpose.
A faithful recreation of a fantasy blade but with a few improvements. Longer, heavier, and a much better designed handle. I'd much rather have this for a mission into Africa to fight possible bio-terrorism than the real knife that was used in the source material.
The machete could be made a hair better with different handle materials but that's a nitpick more than anything else.
As for my own improvements to the machete, I will look into making a new handle and a custom Kydex sheath. Both of these would drive up the prices a bit so I don't blame Scorpion Swords for not doing this. Plus they are more personal preferences and you can't cater to everyone's wants. I'm sure that eventually I'll be asking myself if I need blood grooves added. :lol:
A perfect way to segue me to another purchase. I now understand what Chris Palmer was talking about when he recommended the Sword of Eli II to me. This purchase has shown me that he was correct in his recommendation and when I am able to, I will be back to buy one of those from him.
Highly recommended and possibly better than the original. If you are a Resident Evil fan GET ONE NOW! If you want a good single edge machete for hard usage and survival, can't go wrong there either.
I bought this from KINK on this very forum. Very smooth transaction and nice guy.
Some background-
I have nearly zero experience with swords. I do like machetes and have done a lot of studying on the use of knives. I prefer hard use blades because I don't see the need for decorative pieces. If it can't be used for prolonged periods then I don't want it.
A little martial arts experience but nothing too intensive on the traditional swordplay ends.
I wanted to get a blade from Scorpion Swords because I needed to know how they feel and balance. Finding a second hand one was a golden opportunity I couldn't pass up.
Usual price is $239
Hand Stitched Black Leather Sheath $39
I paid about 190 including shipping with sheath.
Preface-
I am a huge Resident Evil fan and am excited about how this year there will be 3 new games coming out. I have always been a fan of the weapons and this year also marks the first time many people will be able to customize their own weapons IRL to fit the games aesthetics. Someone just started manufacturing Samurai Edge style grips for the Beretta 92. It takes a month but each set is handmade.
In the earlier Resident Evil games, the knife was a challenge item or something of last resort. Only the best of the best could use it to beat the game (just look up knife only runs and you'll see what I mean). The knife itself didn't have a lot of personality until later when HD remakes shed a little more light in the universe. Chris Redfield was using a hunting knife with a wider blade. He usually utilized slashing and hacking movements in its use. Jill Valentine utilized a thinner style survival knife. Her movements seem to emphasize stabbing and precision.
In Resident Evil 4, the knife had a much more significant role. Aside from being featured in a few CG fight scenes it also was used quite a bit in game play. It was always equipped without taking any inventory space. It could be drawn instantly. It was used to open boxes, slash enemies, and kill snakes. It's still the easiest way to kill Krauser in his final mutation. It's by far the coolest way to kill Sadler and El Gigante.
Leon was carrying a Mercworx Sniper during his mission but the blade would change into a jeweled switchblade if he wore his gangster outfit (bonus feature). I would love to own a Mercworx Sniper but I can't justify the price. Maybe I could get Scorpion Swords to make me something similar but made for my hand.
In RE5, Chris makes his way to Africa and utilizes the knife in the same ways as Leon did. RE5's motto seemed to be if it worked in RE4 then make it bigger and Michael Bay it. More enemies, more action, a *ahem* more muscular hero, a partner that does more, more guns, etc.
This brings us to the RE machete. It has been confirmed that Chris was using a Mercworx Goliath in RE5 and Sheva was using a combat Kukri. While kukris (kukrae?) are quite common and inexpensive the Mercworx Goliath is neither of those traits. After finding Scorpion Swords and comparing the stats on both, I think the RE Machete is a much better choice. It seems more in the spirit of survival to me even though RE5 was definitely no longer about survival. Getting my hands on it seemed to be the only way I could tell for sure...
Before it was received-
The machete was shipped from the UK and took a while to get here. Not the seller's fault. More the fault of USPS. The package was received and released by customs within 2 days of shipping. It took another 2 - 3 weeks to get to Washington from Florida. I can't explain that really.
The blade was well wrapped. The only improvement I can think of for the seller is to place it in a poster tube with lots of stiff padding (paper, bubble wrap, etc).
STATS-
Total Length = 24 ”
Blade Length = 18 ½ “
Blade Width = 2 3/8 ”
Blade Thickness = 3/16 “
Handle Length = 5 ½ ”
Handle Width = 1 ¼ “ x 1 1/8”
Handle: Walnut Wood. Scales attached with pins and glued.
Weight = 2 lbs 2 oz
Mercworx Goliath stats (for comparison)
Overall: 15 3/4”
Blade Length: 10 ½”
Blade Steel: S30V
Weight: 24oz.
Thickness: .250”
Initial impressions-
After opening it like a kid on Christmas I felt a little trepidation. It didn't feel heavy in the packaging so I thought that maybe it was going to be a little too light. It also seemed a little on the short side. Once I held it by the handle, I understood just how heavy duty it is. Deceptive how it feels really. It's like a machete short sword. Now I know it's a utilitarian tool!
The sheath seems to be able to handle its job. However, the tip of the sheath was all bent up (most likely due to shipping) and there was a hole where the tip of the blade stops within the sheath. I think a little support in a tube would have been sufficient to keep the sheath in shape. Unless it was like that before it was shipped.
Initial Inspection-
The blade was a bit on the blackened side. This was most likely from the leather sheath. Little flecks of black and seemed a little "sooty". After a little surface treatment with EEZOX (I live near the ocean so this is necessary) I was able to get the blade to a surprisingly shiny finish. I think it needs about two more treatments with EEZOX before I can leave it alone.
After the cleaning, I looked at machete closely and found some marks. I will post pics up later but I'm assuming these were from the handle and just how the metal is (in terms of properties).
Speaking of the handle, I love it! The wood looks great and I love how it completes the look of the machete. I didn't even realize there was a lanyard hold (because it's not important for me to have one on this particular piece) but now that I have held the machete a bit, I am glad it's there.
One air dry later and I was ready for some handling impressions.
Handling-
Heavy. That's the first word that came to mind. You know this thing was made to hack and chop. I haven't swung it enough to pinpoint where the balance point is (that and I'm at work right now) but I'm sure it's pretty forward of the handle.
Not the most agile machete I've handled but I don't think that's the point. This is definitely a power instrument. Besides, light and agile is better for knives (IMO).
You feel like if you swung this hard, there isn't much that would be left in its path.
The handle provides a nice ergonomic feel. I almost get the impression that this handle doesn't feel as bulky as the Goliath from comparing the pictures (I can't locate one of these knives, more or less find a way to handle one).
The handle seems to have three different ways I can hold it and I believe the index finger above the swell is the best for me. The lanyard hold portion of the grip is exposed steel and I immediately thought it would make a kind of pseudo hand guard (to my dismay). Boy was I wrong. It doesn't wrap as far as one would believe and it made me immediately think of Smatchet tactics from Rex Applegate. Excellent bonus.
I had no problems trying to attempt some Chinese sword style movements with it.
Blade-
The blade is sharp but not razor sharp. Not sure if it was originally this way or not but I have no complaints about it. Well ground blade and you can tell that some thought and craftsmanship went into its creation. Seems like it would an edge extremely well. Due to the fact that I probably won't be using it for precision cuts, the sharpness is perfect.
The tip is sharp and feels as though it won't bend easily. The fact that it survived 2 weeks with USPS alone makes me confident that it won't bend anytime soon unless I decide to smack it against other steels or stone.
Basic test-
I did not perform a paper cut test. I did try to stab it through paper and it went through with ZERO effort. Some knives I have to get a running start to penetrate with a stab. This was undoubtedly the easiest I have done this with a larger blade. 2nd easiest overall with the Ka-Bar tanto coming in first.
I do have a large TV BOX that I keep behind a couch. Not much windup is necessary to take chunks of cardboard out of the corner. A simple stab into the box went unobstructed. The only thing keeping me from pushing to the hilt was the Styrofoam insides. Without the Styrofoam, it's probably go all the way through and get lost inside somewhere.
No bottle testing or things like that. Don't have the outdoor space at the moment.
Final thoughts-
A very well made machete at a hard to beat price (even when not secondhand). A true workman's blade that was made with care. Ergonomic and perfect for its purpose.
A faithful recreation of a fantasy blade but with a few improvements. Longer, heavier, and a much better designed handle. I'd much rather have this for a mission into Africa to fight possible bio-terrorism than the real knife that was used in the source material.
The machete could be made a hair better with different handle materials but that's a nitpick more than anything else.
As for my own improvements to the machete, I will look into making a new handle and a custom Kydex sheath. Both of these would drive up the prices a bit so I don't blame Scorpion Swords for not doing this. Plus they are more personal preferences and you can't cater to everyone's wants. I'm sure that eventually I'll be asking myself if I need blood grooves added. :lol:
A perfect way to segue me to another purchase. I now understand what Chris Palmer was talking about when he recommended the Sword of Eli II to me. This purchase has shown me that he was correct in his recommendation and when I am able to, I will be back to buy one of those from him.
Highly recommended and possibly better than the original. If you are a Resident Evil fan GET ONE NOW! If you want a good single edge machete for hard usage and survival, can't go wrong there either.