Why so many swords?
Feb 7, 2023 13:28:45 GMT
Post by john2000 on Feb 7, 2023 13:28:45 GMT
Is a question I've been pondering for a long time now. In the last decade, the amount of swords I've owned at any one time has varied from 0 to about 8 at one time. While I've never had more than 8 at one time I've owned over 40 Japanese blades. For 2023, I've limited myself to only two swords** (for personal reasons, I tend to get carried away with anything I'm currently interested in). One fancy/expensive one as a collectors item that I will not use and the other one is to use, cut, practice kata etc. I don't feel that I really "need" anything more than this. This does not count my tanto, which also only count as two right now. A signed muromachi tanto I'm in the process of mounting and another tanto that I use to practice with. Once again the "one to collect" "one to use" rule I'm kind of testing out now. I will eventually fit another Nihonto in my collection, but I wish to spend big $$$$ on it, so will be awhile to save. It's something I've always wanted to commission a brand new made shinken from a Japanese smith. I will call the third sword "art" so it won't count in my rule of two I'm trying out right now hehe
Viewing the Classifieds here on the daily got me wondering "why buy" or "what is" your process for buying new swords (new to you this question also applies to buying second hand)? Do you just LOVE swords and want as many as you can handle/own or are you after the holy grail that has as yet eluded you? Have you never even thought of this? Are you trying to find the right sword that looks and feels just perfect for you? Are they simply tools for you and tools eventually wear out, you need to replace. It's cheaper now to replace rather than repair (I know from personal sword experience haha).
Just curious about other personal experiences with sword buying and "the sword itch." For me, I've lost A LOT of money buying and selling over the years, I'm starting to focus on quality over quantity now. I'd prefer to save up for 3 years and buy a $5k sword rather than buy a $500 sword every year. But that is just me. Like I always say, I only have two arms haha. But what is your feeling on this? Please don't stress, I'm in no way trying to judge anyone or any decision, I'm just real curious about your process. Thanks for sharing!!
** I currently own 5 katana, 3 of which I've decided to sell just this week leaving me with only 2. It's a work in process haha.