| You may be fancying the idea of owning a | | | | 3. Do I know enough about Japanese swords to |
| samurai sword. It could be cool you think, but you | | | | make a practical purchase? You probably |
| are hesitant because for you it is hard to know a | | | | don’t. But that’s okay, there is plenty of |
| good samurai sword from a bad one. In some | | | | information out there about every type of |
| ways, it’s pretty easy. Understanding basic | | | | Japanese sword that ever existed. |
| sword terminology, the construction, and the | | | | Decorative swords are fairly popular and make |
| history behind swords is the first step for | | | | for a beautiful wall piece. There is nothing wrong |
| choosing the best sword for you. Just be sure to | | | | with spending a little money for an authentic |
| ask yourself three important questions. | | | | samurai sword, even if it is simply mounted on a |
| 1. What will I be using this sword for? Maybe the | | | | wall. Typically, decorative swords are under $200. |
| sword is simply for decoration. Or do you want to | | | | When it comes to a functional sword you will |
| practice sword techniques? Think about the real | | | | want to spend a little more, but try not to go |
| reason you want to own a samurai sword and | | | | over $1,000 if you don’t have to. You will |
| the choosing may be a little easier. | | | | want a tough, samurai sword that can endure a |
| 2. How much money should I spend on a quality | | | | lot of abuse while maintaining the beautiful qualities |
| sword? A beginner sword that is of high quality is | | | | of a piece of art. Because that is what a samurai |
| typically around $200-$600. If you are thinking | | | | sword is, it’s a beautifully crafted weapon |
| about simply decorating, you may want to spend | | | | that can be used in battle or as décor. You |
| a little less. | | | | decide. |