![]() So straight off the mark, the term is misleading and should really be referring to folded steel. How it was achieved is still not fully understood, but the fact is that true Damascus steel stopped being produced around 1750 - and the term itself was resurrected in the 1970s by blade-makers at the Knifemakers Guild show to refer to pattern welded and/or folded knives, which had the same kind of "flowing water" seen in the original Damascus steel swords. Swords made from this "ancient supersteel" were both flexible yet very hard, and a study in 2006 found they contained nanowires and nanotubes ( click here for a detailed article on Wootz Steel). Wootz steel had some very unusual properties and its manufacturing secrets have been lost in the mists of time (the last true Damascus Steel was made in the mid 18th century). While it a marketing term applied to Katana, the term itself comes from the city of Damascus in Syria and refers more properly to Wootz steel - which was produced in India and exported to the middle East. Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA).Ultra Durable 'Beater' Katana under $400.Affordable Traditional Blades with 'Hamon'.I can't fault them for any part of the experience. In addition, I was promptly e-mailed when it became available to make sure I was still interested before they pulled the trigger. I received an e-mail every month or two after the stated lead time apologizing and asking if I wanted to cancel the order. Having said that, this company handled it with as much grace and courtesy as could be expected in the situation. I don't honestly remember how long as I had basically given up and stopped waiting but I estimate between 9 months to a year. It took far longer than the 3-4 moth lead time stated. This may be common in the edged weapon market but I was a little shocked. The only negative aspect of the experience was the wait time. To summarize, I found this an excellent entry level sword and I think anyone anyone realistic in their expectations will be satisfied. I colored them with a black permanent marker and they blend with the wrap perfectly. They were flush fit but left a raw wood color and were quite visible. ![]() The only thing that bugged me about appearance was the dowel pins used to attach the tang to the grip. For what I have invested in it, I found nothing about this sword tacky enough to make me regret the purchase in any way. As described, it does not use authentic traditional materials such as ray skin. Again, considering the price point, I was happy with the fit and finish. It is not consistent across the entire blade (as noted by other reviewers) but seemed a small thing to me. The Damascus pattern on the blade is slightly subdued but very pretty. It came with a very sharp edge from the box and with a few minutes on a whetstone I had it slicing thin strips from a sheet of notebook paper at arm's length. I can't attest to it's durability as I haven't engaged in swordplay with it but rest assured it is a functional blade. Price point was a large factor in my decision and I couldn't be any happier for what I paid. So, I have to say I'm totally satisfied with my purchase. I felt it important that readers know that this is written from the viewpoint of a first-time buyer, but not someone totally ignorant of the subject. ![]() I don't know if this is a common path to begin collecting but I play and collect guitars also so I had to decide where my priorities were. I have always loved swords and have owned a few mass produced stainless swords. I want to preface my review with some comments about my personal situation. ![]()
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