Masahiro Assemble Yourself Katana

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.

Okay, Grasshoppers, it needs to be stressed: RESPECT this weapon! Its blade demands your full and undivided attention; it will not tolerate a single instance of lack of focus. It can cut you like tofu if you don't commit to due diligence at all times! Yes, it IS that sharp.... Also, I would strongly recommend studying any cleaning and assembly vids for katana that you can find on Youtube. All sanctimony aside, this is a truly wonderful piece for your money. An impressively tight tsuka-wrapping with real ray skin panels!! A frighteningly sharp blade and perfectly snug saya! All parts fit tightly with no rattle. Oh, did I mention the blade is ghastly-sharp?! I recommend this Masahiro item for any serious katana enthusiast on a budget. Most of us will never posses an authentic tamahagane katana, but to assemble ones own sleek and deadly "object 'd'art" is more satisfying than simply buying a pre-assembled, "folded" blade at a higher price. Nothing wrong with those swords, but they're not quite as 'personal' as a build-your-own kit. Granted, you will notice several little scratches on the blade but these can be buffed out and polished to a mirror shine. Just don't forget to clean and oil your blade after every engagement to which you commit it. You can be proud of your Masahiro katana!! This is excellent workmanship for the price, and a satisfying project to assemble. Remember to honor traditional katana etiquette at all times. This item is worthy of your respect. "To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the highest skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the highest skill." ~Funakoshi sensei