Mimura Shinji BR @ aol . com

by Matt
(Casselberry)

I currently own 14 Masahiro blades. Ranging from the Feudal Lords to the Sakura, Sunflower, Dragon etc.

I also have wholesaler's licenses from many sword companies (wuujau, budk, chess).

Masahiro blades are not the high quality blades, like Paul Chen. I would only recommend Masahiro blades for class-style cutting (since they are dojo approved). You can normally get through a dozen classes before needing the blade sharpened or repaired. But since that normally costs $100+ and you can buy Masahiro blades for < $100, thats not economical.

Masahiro are good dojo blades for only that reason. If you own a dojo, you can supply swords for a good price to newcomers. Most vets will have their own blades.

The upside to Masahiro, is that their practical series is higher quality than Paul Chen's. Shock right? Chen goes for non-fuctional thrills in his blades to offset the price. Instead of brass fittings, imitation or real rayskin or silk wraps, Chen goes for plastic and pressed wood fittings. Masahiro still uses composite metal, pot metal and nickel/brass fittings.

A Masahiro katana will outlast a practical Paul Chen katana in any dojo use. Ive used both and the Chen's handle fell apart after 4 classes, the Masahiro lasted over 15.

Marashiro are also extremely attractive compared to other manufactored practical blades.

Like any reputable sword salesperson I inspect all blades before purchase. Open the box, wiggle the handle, drop your closed fist on the blade and make sure it doesnt clink. Check for defects, pot marks, deep scratches, loose wraps and MAKE SURE the word slips in and out for the saya easily and stays on.

Of my 14 personal Masahiro blades, only 1 has a slight defect which I could fix, but I wont since I only bought it to complete a set.

If youre a first time student at a cutting dojo, pick up a Masahiro blade. Theyre economical and easy to replace.

I also do not know, but I believe Masahiro blades are High Carbon 1096 Steel.

I have also used a Msasahiro Himawari to cut THROUGH a 1040 stainless steel United Cutlery blade. It ruined the Masahiro, but the blade didnt shatter or crack.