Cold Steel Katana Australia: A Review of the O-Katana

When I first got my hands on the Cold Steel O-Katana, I was excited to put it through its paces and see if it lived up to the hype. As an amateur swordsman with a passion for martial arts, I was eager to test this sword's mettle against various objects and learn how to wield it effectively.

First impressions were promising - the sword felt solidly built, with a substantial weight that hinted at its durability. The Iron Kojiri, adorned with arrow motifs, caught my eye, as did the nicely tied Sageo and well-presented Koiguchi. However, upon closer inspection, I noticed that the koiguchi fit was loose, likely due to normal wear and tear.

The Saya, which houses the blade, was a highlight - the lacquer job held up surprisingly well despite some bumps and scratches. The Tsuka, tsuba, and saya all seemed to be in good order, with the classic lack of Hamon typical of Nihonto swords.

But what about the Blade itself? Unfortunately, it's where the O-Katana falls short for me. While tough and resilient, it's far too wide and thick, making it feel almost unwieldy for actual swordsmanship. As a result, I found myself struggling to maintain control during practice sessions.

Despite these reservations, I must admit that this sword has a certain charm to it. Watching demos and videos of Cold Steel swords in action had left me impressed by their toughness and 'mean' feel, which made me want to test its mettle against something more challenging than mere water bottles.

In the end, while the Cold Steel O-Katana may not be perfect for swordsmanship, it's a solid choice for those looking for an affordable, ultra-durable katana under $400. Its unique design and historical nods make it a great option for those interested in Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) or simply wanting a rugged 'beater' sword to add to their collection.

Whether you're a seasoned swordsman or just starting out, the Cold Steel O-Katana is definitely worth considering - especially if you're looking for an affordable way to get started with traditional blades. Just be prepared for a unique learning experience and don't expect it to behave like a traditional Japanese katana!

Cold steel katana australia