Oniyuri bo-hi

by Brian
(Austin, Tx)

QUESTION: I'm thinking about buying a Cheness Oniyuri, but am wondering if I should buy it with or without the bo-hi. I hear that the bo-hi would stiffen the blade and would like to know if it would be a bad thing to have a sword that lacks flexibility. I was wondering whether or not you prefer blades to have fullers, and what benefits or problems could show up down the road when dealing with or without them?

ANSWER: Hi Brian,

Actually, I kind of prefer the bo-hi version. Even though the cutting and tests in my review of the Oniyuri were mostly with the solid bodied version, the bo-hi handles better, makes a better sound and seems to cut almost as well.

Flexibility is not significantly reduced, and if I could have only one type - I'd probably select the bo-hi version. The only real advantage of the solid bodied version is that it has more authority in the cut because of its forward balance and extra weight. But the bo-hi is a better 'all rounder' if you know what I mean.

Hope this helps.

- Paul