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Post by a61688 on Aug 11, 2020 1:51:38 GMT
Greetings!
Like so many, I've been a fan of Japanese edged weapons as seen on TV and in movies/games. Over the years, I've done a fair amount of oogling at different blades but never fully committing to purchasing as it's nerve racking to think I'd be ripped off. I've done my best to read about the different parts of a katana and what are considered quality and what to look for but would like some guidance on a particular seller. I came across Swords of Northshire (https://www.swordsofnorthshire.com/custom-made-hand-forged-samurai-sword-japanese-katana) the other day and was impressed by the level of detail they provide in the shopping experience. They let you pick parts across the spectrum of quality. I've decided on getting a tanto, specifically because I would like to be able to use it for in-home self defense so it needs to be realistically able to injure a human being or at worst, end a life. It will likely never be used to cut someone but would definitely like the option. I'll lay out the choices I made on the Northshire site and would like to know what y'all think:
Sharp with niku Clay tempered 1095 Tanto - 13 inch Without bo-hi Natural hamon - HM12 Black lacquered saya Blue sageo Tsuba #30 Brass habaki and seppa Fuchi and kashira #30 Black same' Menuki #16 Blue Ito No engraving And finally a black sword bag
It comes out to 414.99 USD with free shipping. Thoughts/concerns/criticisms? Don't go easy on me. Assuming this is a good buy, I plan to complete a matching waki and katana.
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Post by a61688 on Aug 11, 2020 14:33:45 GMT
Thanks for the feedback. Other than price (still a huge factor), do you see any issues with the particular tanto/seller I picked?
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Post by RufusScorpius on Aug 11, 2020 15:11:24 GMT
That seems kind of expensive, but it depends on what country you are in. The USA is generally cheaper than Europe, so it would help to know your location.
With that said, I think you are getting a good blade. The harsh truth is that until you have the blade in hand there is no real way of knowing if it's good or bad apart from the reputation of the seller/manufacturer. Even then, occasionally even with the best of the best, there is still a possibility of getting a dud.
But none of that matters, what matters is that you get blade in hand and start learning what you actually like or dislike. Many have gone the katana route because of pop culture, only to find out they really like European blades better. It's all good at the end of the day. What matters most is that YOU are happy with what you have, nobody else's opinions really matter. You can ask for advise, and take it or leave it, but ultimately it's about your choices and your desires.
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Post by a61688 on Aug 11, 2020 22:13:35 GMT
Thanks for the information, both of you. I know I'm asking a lot for an imaginary blade to be judged prior to purchase lol. I'm just excited and nervous, all at once. I like the alternatives you showed, Brother Nathaniel, but I really do like the longer length of the SoN tanto (which can be had at any length, practically). I spent the last few hours watching YouTube reviews for their custom katana and waki's and they are mostly favorable. But not one damn tanto video! Who wouldn't want a great close quarters blade? Sigh. Only one way to find out, I suppose.
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