Advice on getting a katana

Bill M · 18th June 2007, 10:52 PM

I saw a really neat, though absolutely new katana at the Atlanta Blade Show. It was in a booth where I also met Paul Chen of Hanwei Swords. We had a great talk about old Chinese swords. He is really a neat guy!

He makes some pretty nice swords. His top katana is called a Kami. About $1100.

I have always wanted a nice katana and realize I don't have a clue as to what to look for. Seems a very complicated area filled with unfamiliar terms that everyone who studies katanas understands, but no one else does!

Could someone direct me to some study books, or help me? I might get an older one if I understood them a little better, but one of the custom jobs made by a skilled craftsman is also an option.

Maybe a Hanwei Katana or made by another skilled craftsman?

Maybe a good, genuine antique?

I need a mentor.

If this is more appropriate in the Swap Forum, please move it.

18th June 2007, 10:52 PM	#1
Bill M Member Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: USA Georgia Posts: 1,599	Advice on getting a katana I saw a really neat, though absolutely new katana at the Atlanta Blade Show. It was in a booth where I also met Paul Chen of Hanwei Swords. We had a great talk about old Chinese swords. He is really a neat guy! He makes some pretty nice swords. His top katana is called a Kami. About $1100. I have always wanted a nice katana and realize I don't have a clue as to what to look for. Seems a very complicated area filled with unfamiliar terms that everyone who studies katanas understands, but no one else does! Could someone direct me to some study books, or help me? I might get an older one if I understood them a little better, but one of the custom jobs made by a skilled craftsman is also an option. Maybe a Hanwei Katana or made by another skilled craftsman? Maybe a good, genuine antique? I need a mentor. If this is more appropriate in the Swap Forum, please move it. Last edited by Bill Marsh; 18th June 2007 at 11:18 PM.