Given the price, I was a bit skeptical, but was surprised that the quality was awesome. Good weight and balance. Very sharp. Some reviews have complained that it is made in China, but the Chinese have been making swords for over 2000 years. This is a Ten Ryu katana. One of the better low price swords, since a real Japanese katana would cost between $5000 and $50,000. Dual mekugi pegs add strength so there is no looseness between the nakago and ho. The hamon doesn't appear to be etched. I did however replace the saya with a leather wrapped one that I can wear over my shoulder.
this is a fine weapon. It came sharp as a razor from the factory, still wrapped and oiled. The saya is wooden, no rattle and the sword will not fall out under duress. The hamon is real, not wire brushed, as other reviewers have stated. I agree with the previous poster, this is no toy. The Blade is undamaged after cutting the box it came in into slithers, and then a bleach bottle filled with water clean in half in one clean stroke. In practiced hands, this katana could make an attacker, or would be attacker, wish they hadn't crossed you in the first place. Zombies would fall in droves before the might of this blade!!!
Delivery was a bit quicker than expected. Sword is fairly sharp. Solid brass pommel can be unscrewed. Mine came without any looseness or rattles. Beautiful blade. You can see very faint texture of the folding pattern when viewing blade from the side. Makes a nice "ping" when you flip the blade with your finger.
Well finished. Durable. I own more expensive swords and this one holds it's own. If you're after an entry level or want to have fun without risking an expensive sword than this is perfect for the backyard or the dojo.
At first it felt small in my hand. Very lightweight blade with nice long o-kissake' But the tsuba is kind of small so, this is a nice katana but somewhat feels wakizashi-ish, which i do like its just not the sword i was expecting so at first I was surprised is all. Fittings are tight blade is very nice. I think the o-kissake(Blade tip)
Excellent better than I expected. SHARP!!! Great deal!!! It came faster than I expected and looks great Can beat for the price. I'll be looking for another one from these guys.