For many people, buying a samurai sword is something that they even only ever do once or only a handful of times in their life. Therefore, before you do this, you should take some time out and do some research so that you know exactly what it is that you are buying. To help you with this we have put together a handy guide on important things that you need to consider before buying a samurai sword of your own.
The forging
This is the main thing that defines a true samurai sword and sets it apart from all others. With it being forged it means that all of the impurities in the steel are removed to leave just the purest metal with a good distribution of carbon. This is particularly important as it ensures that there are no spots in the finished blade that are weak. Hand made by a master craftsman means that samurai swords are not mass produced out of a factory where they are all identical, meaning that each and every blade is unique and individual.
Its shape & design
For the full authentic experience, the samurai sword should be the same shape and design of those used during the feudal Japanese era. Today you will find that many samurai swords that are available do not replicate this. The shape and design was developed over many years to perfection and so it is important that you purchase a samurai sword that is as close to that as possible. Doing so will ensure the best possible cutting experience and it will have a good balanced feel to it.
The polish
It is the process of polishing the steel on a samurai sword that is responsible for giving it its finished shape. It is this shape that determines the success of it as an instrument to cut with. The process is one that is very time consuming because of how painstaking it is. Each and every surface must be finished in a way that brings that all into harmony with one another. Because of this it should be done by hand and sight and not on a machine.
Its balance
This is something that is frankly not thought about by most people buying a samurai sword, but is actually a very important factor, as balance equals functionality. Lots of the modern samurai swords that are on the market nowadays do not come with functionality in mind and so are not up to the rigours of serious usage. The better balance that a samurai sword has, the more strength that you can muster whilst wielding it.
If you are currently in the market for a samurai sword and found this guide on what to consider prior to making a purchase then you may want to read this general Samurai Swords Guide, which will provide you with more information about these beautifully crafted weapons. With so many options out there being well informed is what is needed in order to make a sound purchasing choice.
