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Wind & Thunder Daisho - Arthur Fain
This impressive Daisho set was designed in a time when there wasn't much accessible in the way of a reliable cutting production sword. You always had the option of putting a second mortgage on your house, or selling your body after death for medical experiments so you could afford a beautiful Japanese made sword. A bit before it's time, they are a set of swords to be reckoned with, especially when compared to old WW2 Gunto. These swords are in CAS Hanwei's Classic forged line, and appeared long before the elite performance series swords did. They were made with the full intention of being resilient at Batto-do, and they are. Right out of the box, the Wakizashi cuts like a dream, I have had problems putting it down. Long ago I witnessed the Katana cut futo-giri right out of the box, (which you can see for yourself at http://www.nihonzashi.com/tameshigiri_video.aspx). Admittedly, these swords are kind of like the long extinct Megalodon shark, it may not be around anymore, but it prowess is undeniable compared to what exists today. Katana: Sporting a detailed black iron Raijin (or Raiden) Tsuba; the fierce demon turned demigod is striking on the bottom of the tsuba, about where your hand rests. On the top of the tsuba, there is a single bold of lighting etched onto it, simple, but straight to the point, especially when you want this to be the last thing your opponent ever sees. Non-the-less despite the largeness of the tsuba, it doesn't actually feel uncomfortable at all, and I've never been scratched or calloused by it all- though it wouldn't bother me if it had. Sporting a fine O-Kissaki, it makes up for the limited curvature of the blade with its 29.5 inches, bulk, and aggressiveness. If you compare it with other production katanas, the width of the blade at the kissaki is unmatched. This is my favorite feature, as compared to other sword's kissaki; it has a characteristic "spear-head" tip, and you better believe I like to thrust with it to. On the flip side, this same charming part of the sword can ultimately be its downfall for some, and the result when noto'ing unaware can be painful compared to the comfort of a chu-kissaki. But after a few scrapes and a brand new scar to brag about, I myself found this of little consequence. I honestly don't recommend it for the beginning swordsman, this particular Katana's tip heavy balance left me to the point were it seemed irrefutable that it had a mind of its own. And it really- I mean really likes cutting things. If you're not familiar with correct cutting techniques and posture, it will merrily take you on a cutting joyride. Presto!!! 45 degree angles become 60 degrees!!! Throwing a ton of power into is truly unnecessary, just sit back relax. Guide the way through your cut steely while maintaining a proper grip to prepare for the shock and impact, then you'll have no problems with it. Otherwise, this sword handles like a very ornery horse, going whichever direction it desires when left unchecked and rebelling when forced to hard. Cutting power is unquestionable. Once the tip heaviness kissaki is no longer a hindrance, and you understand how to use it to your benefit this sword cuts well from any direction. And far as bending goes, its highly unlikely you'll bend it often, if at all. It is definitely a hardy specimen. The Tsuka of the sword is at a respectable length at 11.5 inches, not too long as seen in some other manufacture's swords. The tsuka-ito is a black cotton wrap, covering a humbling, yet very appropriate Fudo-Myo menuki. I have always preferred cotton wraps since when things get tense, I don't want leathery sword grease developing on the handle of my sword. And despite the dimensions found else ware, the tsuka is not difficult or awkward in hand, and it doesn't hinder my grip in anyway. The Fuchi and Fuchi-Kashira have a simple feminine Tomoe motif, which I like the balance myself, since the rest of the sword is so manly to begin with. Wakizashi: Truly the Wakizashi definitely deserves the same respect the Katana gets, if not more. Out of the box, it cut from any angle I pursued, and it has its own characteristic "spear-head" o-kissaki to be reckoned with as well. Though balance of this Wakizashi is also tip heavy, it lacks the deviating nature of the katana since the forward weight kissaki is so much closer to the hand, and the strength in the wrists hold its stable. Notably with Wakizashi, there often tends to be a problem finding the necessary amount of substance to functionally follow through. However for this one, it is not an issue. Assuming one has a proper grip for Batto-jutsu; it just feels very, very nice. I respect the cutting power of this Wakizashi, and relent that it makes it a marvelous sword for anyone. Unlike the more challenging counterpart, whether you're experienced or not, I have to say it's a damn good sword. It still retains the aggressive qualities of its larger mate, and deserves as much respect. I can recall someone who was interested in this particular blade and had disbeliefs about the blade's sharpness due to the fact is was a forged, not folded blade. He learned that this is a popular misconception. Matching the Katana, it also has glossed lacquered saya, which is nice, it also has the Tomoe Fuchi and Fuchi Kashira. However the similarity with fittings ends about there, after a little investigating I noticed the menuki and tsuba are a different variation on the Raijin theme, actually maybe Raijin's counterpart Fūjin on the inside of the tsuba, as there is a single gust of wind etched on the outside. Thus completing, the Wind & Thunder Daisho set. Just like the Katana, the black cotton tsuka-ito wrap is comfortable, and fits comfortably in my hand. Altogether, this set may present a challenge, but to those who are strong in the way, and wish to leave a mark in the road, this set will ultimately be very rewarding. Perhaps later, I'll get the Tanto too… |
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