Tiger Elite - Nice, but with issues

Posted by Unknown on 24th Aug 2017

Overall a nice sword - I think the Tsuba is one of the elements that sets this sword apart - With this being said the buyer will see inconsistencies in the quality and detail of the Tsuba - I've seen 3 first hand and all were very different in craftsmanship (quality in casting detail and paint). Overall the fittings and construction of the sword are solid. The Hamon is very visible, however unlike in the description you CAN NOT make out or see any Hada what so ever (grain marks in the blade that indicates the steel was folded) - This makes me question the blades construction and if the steel was really folded. The balance of the sword is good as well as the fit in the saya, but the scabbard/Saya mouth (Koiguchi) has a metal collar which if you're not careful could scratch the blade. The sword is slated as being both a show piece as well as a battle ready cutting blade - Probably one of the reasons the Sageo is left untied, but there are videos online you can find to learn how to tie it for display. I haven't put the blade to the test in cutting yet, simply due to the price of this sword, but from a display standpoint I would give it a 7 out of 10 - Due to the lack of a visible Hada, flaws in the Tsuba and the untied Sageo. As far as the extras; The storage bag is a solid plane maroon color and the maintenance kit is average, my box came with a crack in it.