Paul Chen Classic series Vs. elite series

QUESTION: I was just pondering what the difference beteen the Paul Chen tiger series and tiger elite series?

As far as I can tell the tiger elite series is shorter in overall length and the tsuba looks much nicer.

but what about the performance aspects of the blades.

Aslo it would be great if you can tell your thoughts on the paul chen Oni L6 bianite katana.

thank you very much
Malcom Davis

ANSWER: Hi Malcom,

The main difference is that the blade geometry of the elite series is slighly different, slightly wider and with slightly more niku (meat) than the original blade.

As you noted, there are also differences and upgrades with the tsuba and fittings of the Tiger Elite and the old version...

Overall, the new performance series are a big step up...

As to the L6, I actually haven't heard much on this one from anyone who actually owns one. I am a bit worried that, as this was the first generation of that sword, that they may not have got the process of creating these swords down perfectly... I may be unfounded, but I am fairly cautious...

Hope this helps.

- Paul