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Jin-Shi Chinese Swords
This is a misconception that Chinese sword collector turned sword designer Garrett Chan has resolved to change. From the man himself: “As a sword collector, I saw the relative abundance of quality European and Japanese swords. I wondered why, despite the popularity of Chinese martial arts, there was such a misrepresentation of Chinese swords. Everything I saw was a fantasy design, so light and flimsy you could wear it as a belt, or so heavy that no sane person would want to use it...with variations in between. It's been that way since Wushu (a contemporary performance oriented art) became a widespread phenomenon. The techniques in Wushu called for light swords that made sounds and moved noticeably. Since then thin bladed flexible swords have become the norm for Chinese martial arts. In fact it's been that way for so long that some people believe that those are what Chinese swords actually are like! I can't even begin to count how many people have been surprised by the fact that a jian can sever limbs with ease. I believe that now is the time to reverse that trend.” Chan has, with this in mind, started the Jin-Shi Trading Co., a manufacturer of Chinese swords based on actual ancient designs. Using antiques as a starting point in terms of weight, balance and geometry, Chan designs modern recreations with exacting standards. He not only uses antiques for his designs, but period-accurate writings as well (including a Ming Dynasty military manual). Some of the antiques that Jin-Shi low and mid range swords are based on are actually in Chan's personal collection, so they are reproduced accurately down to the fittings! The higher end swords are based on other antiques that are in much larger (and more expensive) collections elsewhere in the world. He has decided, though, to have some modern interpretations of the fittings and style, allowing for contemporary influence in form without losing the historically accurate functionality Warranty info: 30 days repair/replacement at their discretion except if abuse/mistreatment is apparent.
Although still in the early stages, Jin-Shi plans to have entry level and medium end production swords in the low hundreds (pictured below), along with high end custom “made to order” swords from $700 to $6000.
Entry level and medium end swords will be monosteel forged 1095 steel, with 56/57 HRC and a semi-mirror hand polish. The medium end swords will be the same, but with cast fittings, better mirror polish and high end woodwork. High end swords will be forge folded steel (1050, 1065) with a hardness of 56/57 HRC for cutting edge, low 40's HRC for parrying surfaces. There will also be a host of other options, including mirror polish/waterstone polish option and more. More details to follow as their website is updated.
KNOWN ISSUES
At this point in time, there are no known issues with Jin-Shi swords. However, this is because it is such a new company! As this is Mr. Chan’s first foray into swordmaking, it is likely there will be some kinks to iron out, so there may be issues that will arise. Only time will tell how the modern takes on ancient Chinese designs will pan out, but many in the collecting community have been awaiting these swords with bated breath... so there will certainly be plenty of people to test them in the early days!
What's YOUR experience with this brand?Do you own one of the swords made by this company? Or know any good stories or information not covered here? Share it! What Other Visitors Have SaidClick below to see contributions from other visitors to this page... Jin Shi swords As far as I understand, Jin Shi do not make their own swords. They are called "Trading Corporation" and they retail the swords made by other sword makers.... I hope this information on Jin-Shi Trading Co has been helpful. To return to the Homepage from Jin-Shi Swords click here
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