Masahiro Assemble Yourself Katana

I purchased two of these katana online. I believe that they are made of 1040 carbon steel. The sword assembled nicely, but i needed to add an extra seppa to fully eliminate any wiggle or rattle. I have conducted extensive cutting test with these swords and can say with confidence that they hold together. Light targets (water bottles, half tatami) are no problem. It does not preform well as a trick cutter (no fast multiple cuts on tatami). Additionally, I have cut hard targets extensively. Up to now I have cut 3' saplings with no damage or turning of the edge. This sword can handle the hard target well. Over sixty or seventy of such little trees can attest to that. One blade now has a minor turn on the kissake, but it was a result of my own bad form. This is a good blade. The tsuka of better quality then most swords in this price range.

While I did not aquire this Katana online I can confidently say that for $100 this Katana is a steal. For the price I paid I am still amazed at the quality of the sword. The blade has excellent balance, and looks beautiful. I have owned this katana for about six months now and have found no flaws with it. Word of caution this katana is not a flimsy toy like most 440 stainless steel katanas, therefore handle with care this katana could easily cut you or someone else. I highly recomend this katana to any sword enthusiast, it will make a great addition to almost any collection.

JUST GOT MINE TODAY. HAVEN'T ASSEMBLED YET, BUT LOOKS GREAT! QUICK SHIP HAPPY CUSTOMER.

My purchase of the Masahiro assemble yourself katana was my first. This one caught my eye because of the price and also the opportunity to assemble it myself and see parts of the sword most would never see (tang, signature, etc.). I ordered the white saya with the green ito wrap. Sword was nicely done and sharp. Everything went together with no problems and tight. The two tsuba that came with it is a nice touch as it allows some customisation. Also nice if you collect tsuba as you can hang the other in a collection. Furniture on saya and tsuka are tight, and ito wrap is tight also. Nicely finished, nice balance and weight. Only bad part I could find was hamon was wire brushed on, but for price, I guess it's to be expected. Cardboard box it comes in can also be used as display/carry case when sword is disassembled and is a nice touch. The mainenance kit that comes with it is a nice touch also. All in all, this is a nice sword. I have heard of the quality control problems concerning the Masahiro brand, but I guess I could have been lucky enough to get a good one. I rate a 4.5 out of 5.

Ordered my katana and recieved it within 5 days of my order. Katana is pretty well constructed and the fit is tight. The blade is not at all loose in the tsuka, a problem I kind of expected. With the overall fit of the blade and sturdy construction of this piece, I look forward to cutting with it. For the money, it's definitely well worth purchasing.