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Post by K. Corleon on Mar 15, 2013 14:15:01 GMT
I'm ready to purchase my first Katana, but I don't want to get anything too cheap. I found the Cold Steel Warrior Katana CS88BK, and really liked the videos that I saw, along with the reviews I've read (including the BSG homepage). Do any of you own this sword? Am I correct in understanding that Cold Steel's swords used to be Japanese made, and are now exclusively made in China? I guess I'm most curious to know if there is a better Katana to buy that would be in the same price range ($350ish) as I've found these to average for.
Thanks!
Kevin
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Post by TheMu on Mar 15, 2013 15:31:18 GMT
I have a CS Warrior Kat. It didn't work for me so I customized it a lot: forum.sword-buyers-guide.com/viewtopic.php?f=18&t=13148#p165075I bought it about six years ago. If you are looking for a solid HEAVY cutter and don't care so much about traditional japanese swordsmanship it's a good choice. IMHO it doesn't feel like proper katana should, but it's really reliable and a good sword in it's own right. Also I think it might be slightly overpriced...
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Post by K. Corleon on Mar 15, 2013 15:41:37 GMT
Thanks for the reply TheMu! I am interested in a more traditional Japanese katana. Is there something you can recommend that is superior to the CS, but around the same price? Thanks!
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Post by TheMu on Mar 15, 2013 16:06:51 GMT
I'm not too familiar with katanas in that price range... The other katanas that I've properly handled are +500€. I'm sure you'll get recommendations from other forum members! Good luck with your sword hunt
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Post by Sugiyama on Mar 16, 2013 1:41:37 GMT
Ronin katana is a good option. Well balanced, traditional fittings, and one heck of a blade. Kris Cutlery supposedly is also the greatest place to buy katana. Not sure what its price range is though. Dynasty Forge Musha is also supposed to be good. But it is also a bit tip heavy from what I've heard. I'd take a look at Ronin if you want traditional fittings, a strong blade, a sharp cutter, and great service. You can view MY review here: viewtopic.php?f=6&t=15950
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Post by johnwalter on Mar 16, 2013 3:58:26 GMT
CS is overrated and overpriced imho.And were never Japanese made as far as I know.Ahh the videos,they always give me a good chuckle. Budo is the best deal going right now.Blade,tsuka,tsukamaki,fittings,build,the best.If you want a real dojo quality sword,with traditional fittings,the Budo is THE one.But,it is over your stated price.The 1095 "beaters"are under your price and are great swords and the new batch will have better fittings.And both are plenty tough enough. If you want tough,you cant beat the Hanwei Raptors,but you will sacrifice a traditional look.But if you are going to join a dojo and learn how to actually cut,you shouldnt need some overbuilt sword. And theres Kris Cutlery-Great for customizing and a good sword as is.I think they look more like what a Samurai would have carried during say the Sengoku Jidai,very simple and plain. Dynasty Forge-The Musha class would be in your price range and is a great sword,but its just TH 1060.I would go 5160 or 9260. Hanwei-Lots of choices.Found in dojos all over the country. and others
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Post by K. Corleon on Mar 27, 2013 23:06:07 GMT
Thank you so much for all the help guys! I ended up with a Kris Cutlery 26A, received it today and I am happy!!!!! I can't say enough about KC's customer service, some of the best I've ever experienced! Now, to get a stand built and do some backyard cutting!
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Post by downunder on Mar 28, 2013 1:00:39 GMT
I'm with you. I received a Kris Cutlery 26A about a month ago. I loved it so much that I ordered another one and that arrived yesterday. And bear in mind I own about 20 katanas (Hanwei, , Bugei, Cheness) in total including Nihontos (which are only used for display) but my overall favourite is the 26A. Nothing else feels so balanced in hand for me.
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