I would recommend this sword to anybody who is looking for a Tough Beater of an O-katana. The Biggest thing that might turn you away is the weight and length, it doesn’t handle like Normal Japanese Swords.Simple yet attractive, functional Koshirae.The only issues I found were the weight, it’s hard to handle correctly, and might keep some from getting this sword. Not only will this blade last a very long time, it has a simple beauty in the Koshirae. I am very impressed with the Cold Steel O-Katana, its finish, functionality, raw power and downright scary toughness makes this a good choice for anyone looking for a great beater sword. However at its current lowest price of $641.95 (for a blemished version no less), it no longer represents 4 star value for money and has been downgraded to 3 stars accordingly. NOTE FROM THE EDITOR: When this review of the Cold Steel O Katana was first written, it had a 4 star rating as it was being sold for as low as $360. Water Bottles cringe in fear of my mighty blade, as they pose no resistance to my sword’s keen edge and unstoppable force…! As expected it cuts with no issues, but honestly because of their demo videos want me to test it out on something much more challenging. I am not an expert in Kage-Ryu nor any Nodachi techniques, but when used right it feels great. It is heavy, much too heavy for regular Tameshigiri. If it wasn’t for the fact I lift many, many, many water soaked Top soils, garden and potting soil bags, pushing large John Deere lawn tractors, lifting many other assorted large and heavy objects all day, I don’t think I would have the strength to use the sword properly. The best part? The Iron Kojiri, also Arrow themed. The Sageo is nice, nicely tied and well presented. The koiguchi fit is loose, but that’s from normal wear and tear. The Saya is well done, the Lacquer job hold up nice to some bumps and scraps. Other than that, it has all the bells and whistles of a Japanese sword: Tsuka, tsuba, and saya. It also lacks a Hamon, classic to Nihonto. The Blade itself, while being tough and resilient, is much too wide and thick, making this sword very heavy, almost too heavy for actual swordsmanship.

Aside from that, it isn’t really a “Normal” O-katana. I mean it’s a Cold Steel O-katana for Zues’s sake! I haven’t seen many who have used this sword myself, and there doesn’t seem to be many who do… Historical OverviewĮr… Heh-hem… I mean, this blade does have the shape of a Japanese blade it has all the furniture of a Japanese blade also. So after my trip to Arizona and back to my favorite Sword Shop in Sierra Vista, Arizona, I got this through a trade. After watching the many demos and videos of their swords in action I myself was impressed at their toughness and their “Mean” Feel. The edge can use some refining but it is highly functional. Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) It is quality built, well balanced for its large size, and very sharp.Ultra Durable 'Beater' Katana under $400.Affordable Traditional Blades with 'Hamon'.

Cold steel katana vs