Looking for Katana sword maker for nephew's graduation.?

Question

My nephew is graduating from high school and I wanted to present him with an authentic katana sword. I wanted to get one that was authentic and hand forged; price doesn't matter. I know I should have had this done awhile ago because of the length of time to be made; however, thats OK. Does anyone know a good katana sword maker?

Answer 1

Look for Gassan Sadatoshi that's one of the three best swordsmiths in the world. You will be looking to spend $15,000USD per sword at the absolute cheapest.

If you would like, I have two swords that I would sell you (if your nephew a serious martial artist) for $900USD. A Wakizashi (Short sword), and Katana (long Sword). Both are real and both are fully functional, meaning they can perform the tamishigiri/cutting exercises. That might benefit him first more than a sword new/old of immesureable value. My swords are to me as the blades of old. I've used them in protecting my apartment and house from robbery. They are not 500 years old swords, but have the experience of the breath of life behind them.  

Another issue with a sword made in Japan.... It stays there...

I'm sorry but that's the truth. There are many swordsmiths that will make them outside of the country, but none shall ever be made of that quality, and be able to leave... With the SOUL in the blade.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?Vie...

Answer 2

Hey, check at http://www.handmadesword.com

a professional katana sword seller.

Most of their katana swords are handmade, authentic real ones, fully functional and practical. And various kinds for choice.

Answer 3

Please John, do not listen to hesamurai. He is a scam artist and works for the website he listed. The swords they sell are pure junk despite looking nice on the website. Your nephew will only be disappointed when he receives it.

I don't know what you are looking to spend, but as I tell everyone, I HIGHLY suggest www.bugei.com . Their swords start around $1000 or so, but are truely beautiful.

You can find antique katanas for not much more (I just sold a 16th century katana for only $1500) but if your nephew is not familar with the weapons, it might not be a great idea to get an antique.

You can also check out www.cashanwei.com . Their swords come from China, but are very high quality, and despite primarily collecting antiques, I have owned one of their katanas in the past. Theirs start around $500 or so.

Actual makers can be found here in the US (I can think of one off hand in Iowa) but his have a nice waiting list and can cost $8000 for just the blade.

If price really doesn't matter then go with Bugei. You and your nephew will not be disappointed. Besides, theirs are in stock and ready to ship.

If you need any more assistance with your selection I would be happy to help.

Answer 4

Aaron J gave you some good information. I'll just say that if you should have a sword maker make a sword for you expect to wait at least six months minimum. It many times takes more than a year. The few sword makers that make authentic folded steel blades are booked up with orders. Swords can't be hurried. It takes a while to make one and get it right.

BTW- katana means sword so it is not necessary to say katana sword.

Personally if you are dead set on getting a good sword for a gift, I'd consider other alternatives. Bugei makes really great katana. There are others that offer high quality katana. You can choose the type of blade Folded steel or not. You can also choose the color of the scabbard (saya) and the handle wrappings, as well as the decorations. Cheness has some nice katana of a slightly lower price. As I said there are several other options.