Best Sword for under $300?

FirstFreedom · November 28, 2006, 03:28 PM

Anything straight-bladed, with a 2-hand handle, double-edged, good quality sword/katana/etc., in this price range?

Been looking at some of the Cold Steels, such as the "Grosse Messer", but it doesn't have a double edge.

http://www.coldsteel.com/88gm.html

Also, I really don't want a very long blade - 30" or 32" seems much too long to be very useful - any swords have a 2-hand handle, yet still have a shortish-length blade, somewhat heavy? Say, 16-28"?

Also, on the Cold Steel "Hand and a Half" - it looks nice, though a little long - anyone know if it's single-edged or 2-edged? It doesn't say. It looks like a 2-edged, but normally, if they are 2-edged, they make a point to state that in the description, but this one does not:
http://www.coldsteel.com/88hnh.html

Also looking at the Chinese War Sword:
http://www.coldsteel.com/chinwarswor.html
This one is about perfect in terms of dimensions I'm looking for - long 2-handed handle, shortish blade (23.5) - should be very fast and effective in combat, but would like essentially this sword with a double edge.

For that matter, and other suggestions/input/advice on swords? Please keep in mind I know virtually nothing about swords - have never had one.

Eghad · November 28, 2006, 04:28 PM

What are you using it for? I dont think a sword is going to be very helpful in a gunfight. Might tend to be awkward for cleaning game also. In some states you are limited by blade length as to what you can carry unless you are hunting or clearing brush. Here in Texas I think the max is 5 1/2".

XD-Ro · November 28, 2006, 04:35 PM

Looking for back up for Zombies when you run out of ammo?

Prophet · November 28, 2006, 04:54 PM

LOL i'm kinda wondering what the hell your going to do with it. I thinking about getting a sword for some reason a couple of weeks back look on ebay. not sure if those are just for show or you could actually use them but then again I don't know what you'd use them for.

gac009 · November 28, 2006, 05:16 PM

http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/DBA115-55284-1295.html

says its real.

I dont know much about swords or what you would need one for but heck some things dont need a reason. They are cool all on their own.

Rangefinder · November 28, 2006, 05:26 PM

Swords can be a tricky deal. For a general-purpose wall hanger, not so much. For a "combat ready" weapon, it's much more involved. I have both antique originals and combat replicas of the originals for the practical use most closely matched to those originals. Here's a place I've dealt with many times--very good quality in what they offer that won't completely kill the wallet.

http://www.museumreplicas.com/webstore/Home.aspx

Hedley · November 28, 2006, 06:24 PM

Quote:

Razor sharp so not legal in CA or other areas, check local laws before ordering

So, you can only order dull swords in California?

cochise · November 28, 2006, 06:36 PM

I strongly suggest to search this site. Read the information and go to their forums for first hand reports. I have given many of their products as gifts to family and friends. They as well as myself, were very satisfied. Himalayan Imports offers a life time warrantee. Feel free to ask for additional info.

My sword is pictured in the "sword" page on the teak table.

http://www.himalayan-imports.com/

skeeter1 · November 28, 2006, 07:24 PM

I'm not really sure why you'd want a sword, other than to hang over the fireplace mantle, but this site might be worth a look:

http://www.realarmorofgod.com/shop/i...5567ce106dca1b

I do admire Damascus steel. Not the most practical stuff, but it sure is purdy!

Freetacos · November 28, 2006, 07:27 PM

You can get a table knife for 99 cents at Walmart.

FirstFreedom · November 28, 2006, 08:05 PM

Ha - ahhh, the reluctance of gunnies to accept the place of non-gun weapons. Pretty funny. Well, it's mostly for fun, but I want it to be functional, too, in case I ever get too poor to buy ammo!

So, not, don't want a wallhanger at all, but a real worker for slicing and dicing attackers in the tight quarters of the homestead here.

thanks, cochise. They've got a ton of khukris, but unfortunately, not too much selection in swords, though I do like their katana and the short Tibetan sword.

gac009, I can't get that link to work....??

skeeter1, are those supposed to be high quality, or you just not sure?

musher · November 28, 2006, 08:29 PM

Lot's of 'why would you need a sword' sentiment here! Funny that you don't run into that when you're looking for a bayonet.

I don't know a lot, but a few suggestions I could offer are:

NO stainless. It's not safe if you really want to use your sword to cut stuff (or even swing around)

Stay away from ebay stuff unless you're getting a name brand item. DONT buy a sword from china!

Cold steel swords are 'real' in the sense that they can be used. They are good quality steel and well put together, but heavier than they need to be. If you want a sword that is to be used, excess weight isn't a great feature.

Some places that sell real stuff that is designed more like historical swords are:

http://www.albion-swords.com/
http://www.angustrimdirect.com/
http://www.swordarmory.com/
http://www.by-the-sword.com/

Sounds like you're looking for a viking or medieval blade, not sure if you'll find a short double hander though. You might also look at japanese stuff. There are double edged types, but I don't know who makes them now. Under $300 might be a challenge for a quality sword, but they do show up used.

Also you might drop into to http://forums.swordforum.com/ to chat with a bunch of folks who geek over swords like we do over guns. If you posted your question there, I've no doubt you would get some good suggestions. They also have a classified section that sometimes turns up good deals.

hope this helps.

FirstFreedom · November 28, 2006, 10:37 PM

musher, that's exactly the help I needed; thanks.

I think I found what I'm looking for here: A Paul Chen Practical Wakizashi:

http://www.japaneseswords4samurai.com/pcpw.htm

under $200, made for real cutting and fighting; differentially tempered for same. I thought initially that the short 6.5" handle would be too short for my wants - but I just wrapped both my hands completely within exactly 6.5" on a tape measure - so it's the perfect "just-right" two handed length - a good hand and a half, anyway.

Thanks all.

musher · November 28, 2006, 11:14 PM

I've heard a lot of good things about the paul chen practical katana. I'd guess the Wakizashi would be of similar quality.

Certainly easier to swing in the hallway!

TomG160 · November 28, 2006, 11:19 PM

I've got a small collection of swords advertised as "battle ready" and some are most definately not... be careful as some stage weapons are advertised this way. I do however have a "paul chen practical katana" that I'm pleased with. It feels great and when umm.... engaging, an umm.... evil empty box of rice crispies, it slices through while the bottom barely moves. It arrived very sharp. I think $175-190 on ebay back when I bought it.

after reading some more posts, I think you want space between your hands while swinging a katana (maybe the same for wakizashi) for the cutting motion. Drawing the bottom hand back at the crucial point in your swing adding velocity to the blade. I'm just pretending to know something, I had a thing for swords a while back... all I know I've learned from the ever fallible internet. I'd still recommend the katana, a 20" blade seems to small to me (but I'm certainly bias

).

musher · November 28, 2006, 11:25 PM

You've engaged....a..rice crispy's box??

The most I've managed is a pool noodle. Ok, it was a PINK pool noodle, but it was waving around like it was about to attack.

TomG160 · November 28, 2006, 11:31 PM

and if we don't let them know who's boss.... where will it end???

a chinese broad sword or Dao might interest you if you like shorter weapons.
http://www.kultofathena.com/product~...Broadsword.htm

BlondieStomp · November 28, 2006, 11:47 PM

I've heard a lot of good things about Paul Chen swords

FirstFreedom · November 29, 2006, 09:09 AM

Found one even more perfect - the Generation 2 BWT Shinobi Ninja-to....it has the handle size of a katana but the blade length of a wakizashi:

http://www.swordsofhonor.com/ip-026-2.html

Tom, thanks.... do you know if this Gen 2 sword is truly "battle ready" like the Paul Chen's, or junk? 10-4 on the needing more handle room for proper wrist whip.

Look at this page - seems the Gen 2 to be well-made... (??):

http://www.swordsofhonor.com/gen2swhowtha.html

But if you could take this shinobi ninja-to, and make it double-edged, then we'd be be in high cotton.

Quote:

and if we don't let them know who's boss.... where will it end???

Edit: Even better than the Gen 2 perhaps, it would seem that Paul Chen also makes a version of the Shinobi Ninja-to:

http://www.kultofathena.com/product~...ck+Version.htm

TomG160 · November 29, 2006, 10:33 AM

Sorry to say that I've never heard of the Gen2 swords. I like the sword design you've picked out, extra power with the longer handle while still having a shorter blade. One thing I noticed, they use quality tsuba and habaki pieces (usually good indicators on how much the manufacturer spent... there's other pieces they can put on for cheaper that you see aaaaallllll over swords that are junk).

I'm sure you've noticed price difference between that and the paul chen version. Both use quality fittings and I know the paul chen is an overall quality sword. I'm guessing it's because the Gen2 is not made by the modern processes as the paul chen, costing more.

In the end, I think you'll be pleased with either one.
Tom

FirstFreedom · November 29, 2006, 11:17 AM

Tom, it looks like the Gen 2 might be as good as, or a better value, even though more $, since the scabbard is lacquer-covered wood, not just fake leather like the Paul Chen, and the heat-treatment of the Gen 2 says it results in a 60 RC hardness at the edge, back to a 40 - that's a good hard edge! Like you say, probably it's more because of being hand-made, but these extra features come into play also - there may be others - I've definitely settled on my style - just need to pick one of these two- but the Gen 2 is $110 more. The Gen 2 also has a 1.25" shorter blade, which I like, for max maneuverability.

They both use simulated rayskin for the handle wrap, but the Gen 2 uses suede (real cowhide), and the Chen uses synthetic material - see any other significant differences?

Rangefinder · November 29, 2006, 12:20 PM

60 Rockwell on the cutting edge? I'd be a little concerned that may be too high. Edge retention will be fantastic, but depending on how steep or shallow the angle comes into the edge it could be prone to brittleness. A standard metal file is only 2 marks higher (around 62 RC). But they are brittle as a result. The differential tempering will help in shock absorbing and flex, but I'd worry a little about the cutting edge being a little too hard and brittle--especially at the tip. Do you have any prior experience with sword use or cutting experience?

TomG160 · November 29, 2006, 12:23 PM

I think both scabards are wood with the laquer coating. It would be interesting to find the numbers on the Paul Chen as you have for the Gen2. The same numbers you have posted (60at cutting edge, 40 on the back for flex, ideal for this type of sword) are advertised for other paul chen swords, but I haven't found anything for the specific one you're looking at. Maybe you're onto something.

(it seems almost standard for the Paul Chen swords of this style to be 60/40. Some examples here.)
http://www.swordsdirect.com/paul_chen_professional.html

upon further looking I find
"Practical Ninja Sword, whose construction patterns closely that of the Practical Katana...." Makes me think it also has similar blade hardness.
I'm still going to say that you'll be happy with either. But it will be your sword so make sure you get what you want and don't settle for anything less!
Good Luck

Tom

Greg_Dunn · November 29, 2006, 12:39 PM

Gen2 swords are great for the money, and most can take the stress of "steel on steel' contact.

Then there is the crown jewel of swords but out of your price range, Albion Swords.

FirstFreedom · November 29, 2006, 12:44 PM

Yeah, I saw those Albions - nice but egad!

Quote:

Do you have any prior experience with sword use or cutting experience?

No. He'p me here, please. Yes, that does seem awfully hard for something you're swinging at a target with full force & two hands - it could very well chip if the angle is shallow, as you say, couldn't it? Hmmm. I've got pocket knives not nearly that hard, and they're not made for such hard impact blows at all. Maybe such a hardness works because it IS in fact a steep angle, not a shallow angle, at the edge (looks like). In any event, I'm not gonna chop wood with it or anything real hard. It's mostly for fun, but also for self-defense in a pinch - and flesh/clothing ain't all that hard.

I ain't gonna be "trainin' in the dojo" with it anyhow.

Oh, ok Tom, thanks. The Chen does have the nice wood scabbard; I was mistaken on that, hmmm. I think you're right; the practical ninja-to is gonna be same construction as the other "practicals" - but dunno for sure.

In addition to the katana-handle-yet-wakizashi-blade lengths of the ninjo-to swords, they also have a straight blade, not curved like the katana or wakizashi, if you didn't notice that.

November 28, 2006, 03:28 PM	#1
FirstFreedom Junior member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: The Toll Road State, U.S.A. Posts: 12,451	Best Sword for under $300? Anything straight-bladed, with a 2-hand handle, double-edged, good quality sword/katana/etc., in this price range? Been looking at some of the Cold Steels, such as the "Grosse Messer", but it doesn't have a double edge. http://www.coldsteel.com/88gm.html Also, I really don't want a very long blade - 30" or 32" seems much too long to be very useful - any swords have a 2-hand handle, yet still have a shortish-length blade, somewhat heavy? Say, 16-28"? Also, on the Cold Steel "Hand and a Half" - it looks nice, though a little long - anyone know if it's single-edged or 2-edged? It doesn't say. It looks like a 2-edged, but normally, if they are 2-edged, they make a point to state that in the description, but this one does not: http://www.coldsteel.com/88hnh.html Also looking at the Chinese War Sword: http://www.coldsteel.com/chinwarswor.html This one is about perfect in terms of dimensions I'm looking for - long 2-handed handle, shortish blade (23.5) - should be very fast and effective in combat, but would like essentially this sword with a double edge. For that matter, and other suggestions/input/advice on swords? Please keep in mind I know virtually nothing about swords - have never had one.

November 28, 2006, 04:28 PM	#2
Eghad Senior Member Join Date: May 28, 2005 Location: Texas Posts: 6,231	What are you using it for? I dont think a sword is going to be very helpful in a gunfight. Might tend to be awkward for cleaning game also. In some states you are limited by blade length as to what you can carry unless you are hunting or clearing brush. Here in Texas I think the max is 5 1/2". __________________ Have a nice day at the range NRA Life Member

November 28, 2006, 05:26 PM	#6
Rangefinder Senior Member Join Date: August 4, 2005 Posts: 2,017	Swords can be a tricky deal. For a general-purpose wall hanger, not so much. For a "combat ready" weapon, it's much more involved. I have both antique originals and combat replicas of the originals for the practical use most closely matched to those originals. Here's a place I've dealt with many times--very good quality in what they offer that won't completely kill the wallet. http://www.museumreplicas.com/webstore/Home.aspx __________________ "Why is is called Common Sense when it seems so few actually possess it?" Guns only have two enemies: Rust and Politicians.

November 28, 2006, 06:36 PM	#8
cochise Senior Member Join Date: November 2, 2001 Location: Orlando Posts: 299	I strongly suggest to search this site. Read the information and go to their forums for first hand reports. I have given many of their products as gifts to family and friends. They as well as myself, were very satisfied. Himalayan Imports offers a life time warrantee. Feel free to ask for additional info. My sword is pictured in the "sword" page on the teak table. http://www.himalayan-imports.com/ __________________ Jim

November 29, 2006, 12:20 PM	#22
Rangefinder Senior Member Join Date: August 4, 2005 Posts: 2,017	60 Rockwell on the cutting edge? I'd be a little concerned that may be too high. Edge retention will be fantastic, but depending on how steep or shallow the angle comes into the edge it could be prone to brittleness. A standard metal file is only 2 marks higher (around 62 RC). But they are brittle as a result. The differential tempering will help in shock absorbing and flex, but I'd worry a little about the cutting edge being a little too hard and brittle--especially at the tip. Do you have any prior experience with sword use or cutting experience? __________________ "Why is is called Common Sense when it seems so few actually possess it?" Guns only have two enemies: Rust and Politicians.

November 28, 2006, 04:35 PM	#3
XD-Ro Senior Member Join Date: December 7, 2004 Location: IL Posts: 164	Looking for back up for Zombies when you run out of ammo?

November 28, 2006, 04:54 PM	#4
Prophet Junior member Join Date: November 20, 2006 Location: Great State of TEXAS Posts: 244	LOL i'm kinda wondering what the hell your going to do with it. I thinking about getting a sword for some reason a couple of weeks back look on ebay. not sure if those are just for show or you could actually use them but then again I don't know what you'd use them for.

November 28, 2006, 05:16 PM	#5
gac009 Senior Member Join Date: January 19, 2006 Posts: 430	http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/DBA115-55284-1295.html says its real. I dont know much about swords or what you would need one for but heck some things dont need a reason. They are cool all on their own.

November 28, 2006, 07:24 PM	#9
skeeter1 Senior Member Join Date: April 11, 2006 Location: Northeast Ohio Posts: 3,403	I'm not really sure why you'd want a sword, other than to hang over the fireplace mantle, but this site might be worth a look: http://www.realarmorofgod.com/shop/i...5567ce106dca1b I do admire Damascus steel. Not the most practical stuff, but it sure is purdy!

November 28, 2006, 07:27 PM	#10
Freetacos Senior Member Join Date: September 20, 2006 Location: California Posts: 441	You can get a table knife for 99 cents at Walmart.

November 28, 2006, 08:05 PM	#11
FirstFreedom Junior member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: The Toll Road State, U.S.A. Posts: 12,451	Ha - ahhh, the reluctance of gunnies to accept the place of non-gun weapons. Pretty funny. Well, it's mostly for fun, but I want it to be functional, too, in case I ever get too poor to buy ammo! So, not, don't want a wallhanger at all, but a real worker for slicing and dicing attackers in the tight quarters of the homestead here. thanks, cochise. They've got a ton of khukris, but unfortunately, not too much selection in swords, though I do like their katana and the short Tibetan sword. gac009, I can't get that link to work....?? skeeter1, are those supposed to be high quality, or you just not sure?

November 28, 2006, 08:29 PM	#12
musher Senior Member Join Date: April 23, 2005 Posts: 462	Lot's of 'why would you need a sword' sentiment here! Funny that you don't run into that when you're looking for a bayonet. I don't know a lot, but a few suggestions I could offer are: NO stainless. It's not safe if you really want to use your sword to cut stuff (or even swing around) Stay away from ebay stuff unless you're getting a name brand item. DONT buy a sword from china! Cold steel swords are 'real' in the sense that they can be used. They are good quality steel and well put together, but heavier than they need to be. If you want a sword that is to be used, excess weight isn't a great feature. Some places that sell real stuff that is designed more like historical swords are: http://www.albion-swords.com/ http://www.angustrimdirect.com/ http://www.swordarmory.com/ http://www.by-the-sword.com/ Sounds like you're looking for a viking or medieval blade, not sure if you'll find a short double hander though. You might also look at japanese stuff. There are double edged types, but I don't know who makes them now. Under $300 might be a challenge for a quality sword, but they do show up used. Also you might drop into to http://forums.swordforum.com/ to chat with a bunch of folks who geek over swords like we do over guns. If you posted your question there, I've no doubt you would get some good suggestions. They also have a classified section that sometimes turns up good deals. hope this helps.

November 28, 2006, 10:37 PM	#13
FirstFreedom Junior member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: The Toll Road State, U.S.A. Posts: 12,451	musher, that's exactly the help I needed; thanks. I think I found what I'm looking for here: A Paul Chen Practical Wakizashi: http://www.japaneseswords4samurai.com/pcpw.htm under $200, made for real cutting and fighting; differentially tempered for same. I thought initially that the short 6.5" handle would be too short for my wants - but I just wrapped both my hands completely within exactly 6.5" on a tape measure - so it's the perfect "just-right" two handed length - a good hand and a half, anyway. Thanks all.

November 28, 2006, 11:14 PM	#14
musher Senior Member Join Date: April 23, 2005 Posts: 462	I've heard a lot of good things about the paul chen practical katana. I'd guess the Wakizashi would be of similar quality. Certainly easier to swing in the hallway!

November 28, 2006, 11:19 PM	#15
TomG160 Member Join Date: February 5, 2005 Posts: 98	I've got a small collection of swords advertised as "battle ready" and some are most definately not... be careful as some stage weapons are advertised this way. I do however have a "paul chen practical katana" that I'm pleased with. It feels great and when umm.... engaging, an umm.... evil empty box of rice crispies, it slices through while the bottom barely moves. It arrived very sharp. I think $175-190 on ebay back when I bought it. after reading some more posts, I think you want space between your hands while swinging a katana (maybe the same for wakizashi) for the cutting motion. Drawing the bottom hand back at the crucial point in your swing adding velocity to the blade. I'm just pretending to know something, I had a thing for swords a while back... all I know I've learned from the ever fallible internet. I'd still recommend the katana, a 20" blade seems to small to me (but I'm certainly bias ).

November 28, 2006, 11:25 PM	#16
musher Senior Member Join Date: April 23, 2005 Posts: 462	You've engaged....a..rice crispy's box?? The most I've managed is a pool noodle. Ok, it was a PINK pool noodle, but it was waving around like it was about to attack.

November 28, 2006, 11:31 PM	#17
TomG160 Member Join Date: February 5, 2005 Posts: 98	and if we don't let them know who's boss.... where will it end??? a chinese broad sword or Dao might interest you if you like shorter weapons. http://www.kultofathena.com/product~...Broadsword.htm

November 28, 2006, 11:47 PM	#18
BlondieStomp Senior Member Join Date: March 22, 2006 Location: cypress ca Posts: 222	I've heard a lot of good things about Paul Chen swords

November 29, 2006, 10:33 AM	#20
TomG160 Member Join Date: February 5, 2005 Posts: 98	Sorry to say that I've never heard of the Gen2 swords. I like the sword design you've picked out, extra power with the longer handle while still having a shorter blade. One thing I noticed, they use quality tsuba and habaki pieces (usually good indicators on how much the manufacturer spent... there's other pieces they can put on for cheaper that you see aaaaallllll over swords that are junk). I'm sure you've noticed price difference between that and the paul chen version. Both use quality fittings and I know the paul chen is an overall quality sword. I'm guessing it's because the Gen2 is not made by the modern processes as the paul chen, costing more. In the end, I think you'll be pleased with either one. Tom

November 29, 2006, 11:17 AM	#21
FirstFreedom Junior member Join Date: May 31, 2004 Location: The Toll Road State, U.S.A. Posts: 12,451	Tom, it looks like the Gen 2 might be as good as, or a better value, even though more $, since the scabbard is lacquer-covered wood, not just fake leather like the Paul Chen, and the heat-treatment of the Gen 2 says it results in a 60 RC hardness at the edge, back to a 40 - that's a good hard edge! Like you say, probably it's more because of being hand-made, but these extra features come into play also - there may be others - I've definitely settled on my style - just need to pick one of these two- but the Gen 2 is $110 more. The Gen 2 also has a 1.25" shorter blade, which I like, for max maneuverability. They both use simulated rayskin for the handle wrap, but the Gen 2 uses suede (real cowhide), and the Chen uses synthetic material - see any other significant differences?

November 29, 2006, 12:23 PM	#23
TomG160 Member Join Date: February 5, 2005 Posts: 98	I think both scabards are wood with the laquer coating. It would be interesting to find the numbers on the Paul Chen as you have for the Gen2. The same numbers you have posted (60at cutting edge, 40 on the back for flex, ideal for this type of sword) are advertised for other paul chen swords, but I haven't found anything for the specific one you're looking at. Maybe you're onto something. (it seems almost standard for the Paul Chen swords of this style to be 60/40. Some examples here.) http://www.swordsdirect.com/paul_chen_professional.html upon further looking I find "Practical Ninja Sword, whose construction patterns closely that of the Practical Katana...." Makes me think it also has similar blade hardness. I'm still going to say that you'll be happy with either. But it will be your sword so make sure you get what you want and don't settle for anything less! Good Luck Tom

November 29, 2006, 12:39 PM	#24
Greg_Dunn Member Join Date: October 4, 2006 Location: Texas Posts: 36	Gen2 swords are great for the money, and most can take the stress of "steel on steel' contact. Then there is the crown jewel of swords but out of your price range, Albion Swords. __________________ Greg Dunn Ranger Gunleather Handcrafted concealment leather for the working man