Paul Chen Zatoichi Stick Sword RED

Finally, Paul Chen has made a Zatoichi sword that is NOT a full-length katana. The katanas are great, but they are not the short cane sword of the Shintaro Katsu movies. I bought one of the first Zatoichi style stick katanas by Paul Chen, and it is a great sword; but I would like Hanwei to make a replica of the EXACT sword Zatoichi uses in the older movies -- they have the look, with their plain stick sword, but they still made it a full-length katana. That said, this sword replica from the 2003 movie version of Zatoichi is great. I also wish it were sharper, but it is beautiful, and the sword fits into the saya easily and smoothly, without the sword moving around once it's in its scabbard. The sword length is shorter, as it is in the movies, making a reverse grip practical and effective. You can't go wrong with this sword for the price. It is quite sharp, but could use some added polishing. Very happy to finally have a real sword cane that isn't a cheap piece of junk.

Tight, beautifully made, and a near perfect copy of the Zatoichi cane-sword used in the 2003 movie. This is a svelte and remarkably well constructed piece; reinforced on both the handle and the saya mouth with metal fittings which are echoed by a band on the lower third of the saya and the tip to protect it when used as a cane. Rather than a lipstick like red lacquer, the finish on this Chen is more like clear-coat over redwood, it must be seen to be appreciated for how subtle and attractive it is. Unlike the other Zatoichi swords, this one is very close to the length seen in the film - more of a short sword than full sized, it is quick and easy to use with a one hand reverse grip. I would have given it a 5 if the blade had been a little sharper and the hamon less rough, that said, the polish and fit of the blade are superb. For anyone with an interest in either the film or this type of sword in general this is a must have whose quality far exceeds the price. KFA