Bushido Series Nobunaga Katana

Originally, I was upset when I received this katana. It was really wedged in the saya. It took a lot of effort to release it from the saya. It wasn't the habaki stuck in the koiguchi, but the blade was probably carelessly shoved in the saya causing the blade to cut into the wood down inside. However, now that it's been freed from it's shackles, the katana is spectacular. The finish on the blade is beautiful. It's very sharp and staring down the mune reveals a very straight blade. No scratches or imperfections like other katana I spent twice as much on. The tsukaito is tight, really tight. I'm not a fan of the shoestring type ito, but it doesn't bother me too much with this sword since it's so well wrapped. The same is nice quality with good size pearls and none of that see through stuff. The furniture is a bit lackluster, but it's a phenom of a cutter and the blade is very forgiving of my poor form. Not a scratch on it after a few backyard adventures. For the money, you really can't go wrong. One of my favorites now...I keep staring at the great finish. I didn't give it a five rating due to the frustration when I initially got it and the shoestring ito. But most others in this price range don't even compare. A 4 1/2 would be more accurate.

I searched over three weeks before making my purchase. I bought two swords, the Bushido Nobunaga and a Masahiro Masakage. You do get more for the extra money but they are both excellent values. I wanted a long Kissaki (tip) and the Nobunaga gives me exactly the profile I was looking for. I can't tell if the Hamon (temper line) is "true" or not but it looks real. Blade seems very sharp but I have not decided if I will cut with it or not (looks too good to abuse). Saego is very tight as is the Ito and all fittings. Blade had a small spot of rust on the edge near the Habaki (ferrule), which I have read as being common with any sword, and it polished out easily with a soft stone. Overall I am very pleased with this sword and if it was avaliable in brown or dark maroon I would not hesitate to buy another one. Ordered on Sunday evening and they were delivered on Wednesday before lunch.

This is the best sword I own. If you are considering this purchase, you will not be disappointed in its quality. Great for cutting as well as collecting. Well balanced in favor of the blade creating more powerful strokes. This is no toy.