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Buying your first sword

You are considering your first sword purchase and want to do all of your research before you decide which is the right piece for you. The amount of information available (steel types, tempering processes, P.O.B, “battle ready” etc.) can be quite overwhelming when you start learning about swords which is why we wanted to offer a piece of advice to make things easier. Relax! You don't need to be a sword expert to purchase your first sword as we have done your research for you. You don't need to have a degree in metallurgy or know the complete history of the dark ages. It starts with one simple question and once you have that answer the battle is already half won.

1. I would like to use it as a display piece in my home
2. I would like to take it outside and do some cutting but mostly display
3. I am taking martial arts and/or would be doing lots of cutting
4. I am taking Iaito or need a good sword for Kata and demonstration. (not cutting)

If yours was the number 1 answer then you are finished! Buy any sword that looks good to you! If you are not going to be swinging or cutting with your sword, anything in the Decorative Swords section and the Functional Swords section of our website will be a good choice.

If you answered 2 or 3 you will want to do your sword searching in the Functional Swords section of our website only. Most of the Katana found in this section are already sharp and ready for use right out of the box. Many of the European swords are not sharpened as they are more commonly used for re-enactment. The European swords that have a blade geometry for cutting will offer a sharpening service for them that you can select when making your purchase.

If you answered number 4 you will want to limit your search to the Practice Swords section found under Functional Swords on our website. Many of the wooden swords have been used traditionally throughout history for practice and training. For Iaito “the art of drawing the sword” you will find properly balanced and forged swords in this section as well. These swords are not sharpened for safety.

It is really that simple and of course if you are interested there is a lot of information available that you can read and it is quite interesting to learn, but it isn't always necessary for determining your sword needs. We have been selling swords online and offline since 2000 and are always available by email, online chat and telephone to help you find the right piece for you.