Some of you are on here looking for anime swords that you can bring to conventions, and that will only be used as props for photography, and never really used. Others may be looking for replica swords that will be hung or displayed, and also never really used.
You can disregard this article. Buy a prop that looks like the real thing. It will do all you need it to.
But for those that are here looking for a real anime sword, that can be used for martial arts or for live cutting practice and training in the yard, you must get a model that has a full tang. If you don’t you will break the sword or injure yourself or worse.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why a Full Tang Matters
First things first, if you are not familiar with sword or knife terminology, the tang is the portion of the blade stock that extends through the hilt of the sword. It is usually somewhat (but not too much) narrower than the blade itself so it can fit through the hilt.
The tang is, therefore, the interface between the hilt (and thereby you) and the blade.
Many cheap replicas, which are referred to pejoratively in this industry as “sword shaped objects” have tangs that are either spot welded on, or which are too thin, or both.
One particularly egregious manifestation of this design is known as a rat-tail tang. A rat-tail tang is basically a thin strip of steel or other metal that is cheaply welded onto the blade, and which is not integral with it.
As you might be able to imagine, both rat-tail tangs and tangs that are welded onto the blade stock come nowhere near the strength of a tang that is integral with the blade stock, and which is physically an extension of it.
Now, a bit of an explanation might help here because “full” tang might sound like a misrepresentation. The tang does not necessarily need to be the full width of the blade, but it should be at minimum a third the width, and the wider the better.
It must also be gradually tapered away from the blade. If it tapers too abruptly or at too sharp of an angle, it will create what is called a stress riser which can result in a break.
If you attempt to use an anime sword that does not have a full tang for live practice, you are likely to break the sword at the hilt, and may injure yourself or others, or worse.
Other Features to Look for
In addition to a full tang, a battle-ready anime sword should:
- Be made with a blade of appropriate steel that has enough carbon to take a proper heat treatment and temper.
- And be tempered properly, so that the sword can withstand the abuses of being used for live cutting practice.
If the sword has these three features, being a full tang, forging from a quality alloy, and a good temper, the sword can be considered battle ready and possesses the necessary structural integrity to be used for live practice.
Where to Get High-Quality Anime Swords
In the market either for anime swords that can be displayed or which are considered battle ready? Visit BUDK. They carry a wide range of replica blade swords as well as battle-ready swords, all of which are beautifully constructed and which exhibit high overall quality.
For more information, visit their website or get in touch with them directly and they will be more than happy to assist.
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