While Japanese sword cutting competitions have been popular for many decades, there has been little or no interest in exploring the cutting potential of Western swords until very recently. Now in response to this awakening Cold Steel would like to encourage it by offering our own Competition Cutting Sword. Broadly based on the Arbedo, its intended for contests using rope, mailing tubes, tatami mats and similar soft targets. The thin, wide, double edged blade is hand forged from 1050 high carbon steel with a hard spring temper and is delivered fully sharpened and polished. For maximum control and leverage, when attempting big cutting feats, our Competition Cutting Sword comes with a substantial leather covered wood handle that will accommodate one or both hands. To protect your fingers and fend off opposing blades, a simple yet effective double quillon steel guard is provided. To help counter balance its wide blade, its supplied with an attractive flared, lozenge shaped steel pommel and comes encased in a thick and sturdy, black leather scabbard with matching steel throat and chape.