masahiro katana question

by tyler sumperl
(maryland, united states)

QUESTION: I have a question about a katana
made by masahiro. it is called the masahiro tora (tiger) katana. I was wondering if you knew anything about it as I am going to be a first time sword buyer and am a martial artist looking for an affordable yet decent enough sword for kata and light cutting.

ANSWER: I've seen this sword and think it is ok for the price, though there are better ones out there for the same money. The problem with Masahiro is largely QC, you just never know what you are getting and the manufacturer is somewhat faceless and impossible to contact.

My own personal recommendation for the same price is either the Musashi Wind Katana reviewed here or the Cheness Ichi Maru which is probably the most underestimated $150 sword on the market...

Naturally, it boils down to a question of personal choice and I know quite a few people who have been fairly impressed with Masahiro - and if you get a good one - they aren't 'junk'. But I really feel that there are better choices out there for the same $$$...

Hope this helps.

- Paul