Zatoichi-SH2267

[bobO]

My first review and it's a serial review at that.
Being a big fan of the movie series Zatoichi, I just had to have this sword.
Although I didn't buy this at SOM(didn't know about SOM at the time)
you can get it here for the best price on the web,
with Jason's top notch service thrown in for free.So here we go.
The Paul Chen Zatoichi cane/stick sword-SH2267.
Sword spec's blade 28 1/4" handle 11"
overall 42 3/4 weight 1lb11oz. This according to the factory,
in real life mine measures,overall 41 3/4, blade 27 5/8, handle 10 1/2.
This is how it came packagedhttp://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/kimspicks208.jpg
very nicly done, I thought.And this is the sword in saya.
My first impression, before even taking the sword out of it's sock,
was that this baby has some weight to it.
My first impression on holding the sword and really
looking at it were favorable to say the least.
Then I drew the blade and was pleasantly surprised.
this was a nice blade!
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/kimspicks219.jpghttp://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/bobspicks088.jpg
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks090.jpg The blade is 1" wide at the habaki, tapering down to 3/4 of an " at the yokote. At 1/4" thick it is very stout. The POB is 7 1/2" from the muni-machi, the COP is about 10'' from the point of the kissake. The mune is iori and very well done. the hamon is notare and one point worth talking about, Is it real? I've been assurred that it is, I think it has been acid etched but there is what looks to be a good boshi. I just think it's to white, but much better then a wire brushed hamon. The shinogi-ji is done up in high polish, the Shinogi runs pretty true with just very small irregular spots here and there, but good enough. the Ji is in a pretty rough polish but again good enough for a sword that cost less then 200$ there is no hada as the blade is maru.The ha is nice and sharp, except for the first 2 1/2" off the habaki which is butter knife dull a good feature on this kind of sword. The kissaki is nicely formed, not up to japanese spec but good enough for this country boy. There is just a hint of counter polish which I think is nice. As to blade geometry couldn't be simpler just to inclined planes getting together to make a point. Now to the nakago, this is where they have made big changes and made a big impression on me. What they did is add a real nakago, at 9 7/8''long and 7/8" wide this gives a feeling of confidance when cutting.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/bobspicks182.jpg
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/bobspicks186.jpg
This nakago has a nice mei(lord knows what it says) and nice file marks, what I don't like is the Habaki, It came like this and has not gotten any worse.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/zatoichi/bobspicks193.jpg

[69NINJA]

um wow great review my friend it was ... uh ... special YEAH! very, unique:lager:

O.K. BOBo just step away from the photobucket B4 anyone else gets hurt:-<:Praying:
BRIAN B. and FIREHAND i blame you:Ljester:


seriously though BoBo heres a stamp:


http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q10/dragonsbrew717/ist2_1335871_canadian_postage_stamp.jpg
-canadian- shhhh invasion very near :rumor:


just mail me some um what were they called??? um? pho-to-graphs, yeah photographs thats it, mail me some of those and i'll put up a review for ya.


=))

[Jason Moore]

Well, it was a good try my friend...:)

[Brian Brazier]

The wood appears to be redish brown, is that just the way the pic came out? Regardless I will be picking one of these up to replace the Paul Chen Black Zatoichi that I already have

[Dotanuki]

Okay, now you really got me confused. :-/

When you said this was a serial review, does that mean you be adding more to it as you go along?

[bobO]

Yup, same bat channel,same bat time. When it gets to the cutting part it turns into a cliff hanger, you know like Rocket man!! As to the color, yes that is an accurate reproduction of the color. The saya almost looks like faux wood grain. I'm not done yet! Theres an edit button you know, Wait for it, Boy's. (said in best English sargent major voice) This way people can ask questions as I go along and it's not so overwhelming for me. When it comes to swords I know which end to hold and which end to stick in the other guy, but all this thinking..man!

[Jason Moore]

Wow, this is fun! :popcorn:

[bobO]

If any one wants to jump in there and arrange this thing in some comprehensible way knock yourself out, it does weird stuff on me:hahaskull:.69ninja,=))LMAO, do you want me to write up the battle plan:writing:? And yes firehand and Brian:lager: are to blame, I'm just following orders:ohyeah:

[69NINJA]

If any one wants to jump in there and arrange this thing in some comprehensible way knock yourself out, it does weird stuff on me:hahaskull:.:

i swear on evrything last night i almost did that!!! but i see since then youve added some and your pullin it together:detective::writing:
i think this is really good practice for you;) especialy since we ALL get to watch the, uh, 'evolution' take place:evilbat:

Good job sometimes this computer crap really p!$$e$ me off too:flaming:

[Firehand10k]

Its looking good so far but it would prove easier to read/view if you pressed the enter key between the photo links so they go under each other instead of side by side. Great pics though and waiting to read more about it.

By the way the Mrs was impressed with your background flower and wondering where you found one in the winter.:detective:

[bobO]

So before I paste the pic into my draft I hit enter first? Guy's thanks for the of encouragement, I have a few swords I'd like to review, but I'm technically challenged:stooges:! That Pic was taken in the summer, the neighbor grows about an acre of flowers each year. I did the arranging and made the sword stand. It's a samurai thing.:karate: Don't know what I did but It worked,thanks Firehand!

[bobO]

Put in another installment to the review! just a heads up.

[Jason Moore]

I actually tried to fix it yesterday, but that post is full of demons and cannot be fixed...I think we need Richard Johnson to put some spells on that thing!:flaming:

[bobO]

O-kay added more, I have a pic looking down the throat of the Tsuka, if any one wants to see that or any other pic's of what we covered so far, speak up now or I'm moving on.

[Brian Brazier]

Yes the hamon is real, it has been enhanced (by acid I think) to be more pronounced. I would contact CAS Hanwei about the Habaki, they will probably replace it for free. 1-800-635-9366

[bobO]

Yeah I was leaning toward real my self, after comparing it to my PPK Tanto. I did polish the blade with metal glo and this took away the oxidation that made the hamon so white. I'll post a pic at the end of the review. The sword is over 7 months in my possession do you think, certainly worth a try. Thanks for the # Brian! Any pic's of this sword you want to see let me know.

[Taygrd]

Looks great BobO, the pics are top notch. I love the nakago on that blade. Be like Hemmingway in no time!!! Oh course I like the use of plaid(Tartan) in the background.

[bobO]

Thanks, My next tome will be"The old man and the sword". That is some nagako ain't it. The tartan is clan Murray, Ever ready! Just wish this sword had one of your Hamon.

[Jason Moore]

Very cool Bobo, thanks for sharing! I see you have also figured out how to change your avatar! =D> You are really coming along with these new-fangled computers!

[bobO]

Thanks Jason, I'm going to add a little more just need a break. The smoke was coming outta my ears and seeing how this ain't the 70's that ain't good. The thing about these puters is to do one thing you gotta know 6 other things first. I want to shout out to Firehand for the tip about hitting enter, that really helped as did all the other help and encouragements. It's not as easy as it looks. PS. You guys are the best!!!

[Firehand10k]

Hey thats what we're all here for, too learn from each other. Your post got me seriously considering one of the swords.

[bobO]

Well I can't thank you guys enough, I don't think most places would have let me get away with half of my shenanigan's.Firehand, for the money I really think this is a great sword and would help round out your collection.Only thing is to use this in the style of ichi you would want the shorter blade as this one is very tip heavy and feels like it wants to get away from you. I keep thinking about sanding this one down(the saya and tsuka) but it's just so pretty. The fit and finish is a 5/5 for sure.

[Nanshoji]

I liked the review, and like I said, it just takes pratice.

[bobO]

Thanks Nanshoji, you can teach an old dog new tricks. I was thinking of doing the Ko-Kat next or maybe the corn leaf saber.

[Jason Moore]

There better be a cutting video! :>

[CHuglas Munechow]

Hi, newbie on this list and a bit behind the gun on this thread...

Does the tsuka on the Zatoichi SH2267 shikomizue have "direction notches" on both sides or just one side?

Ordered mine a few days ago. Can't stop surfing for info while I wait.

[Brian Brazier]

Just one side, same as the sword in the movie.

[bobO]

Yup, there on the Omote or finger side of the tsuka. I think I'll do a little photo thing on the proper way to draw this sword, as it can be a little confusing, and that ain't good, when where talking about 2+ feet of sharp steel. And welcome to the forum Chuglas, cool name.

[CHuglas Munechow]

I think I'll do a little photo thing on the proper way to draw this sword, as it can be a little confusing, and that ain't good, when where talking about 2+ feet of sharp steel.

Yes, please do. I have heard that drawing one of these puppies incorrectly is a good way to lose a few fingers. (That and thrusting with damp hands.) Also any information you can point me to on waki gamae technique would be appreciated...

-CHug

[Brian Brazier]

I wouldnt suggest doing a thrust at all with the Zatoichi, it is just to risky, I have heard of Waki Gamae but really don't know much about it, what is it?

[CHuglas Munechow]

I have heard of Waki Gamae but really don't know much about it, what is it?

I believe Waki Gamae or (waki no kamae) is the Iai stance where you reverse your grip on the tsuka and cut upwards from below, the theory being (with a Katana in Iai/Kendo) that it allows you to conceal the length of the blade behind you initially.

All of this is coming from internet research and multiple contradicting books on the subject; not an actual sensei, don't take it as absolute information...

-CHug

[bobO]

Here we go, grasp your zato firmly in your left hand like so.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks207.jpg
See those dark bands , those are the foul lines, don't put your flesh past those lines. Hope that helps.
Notice how you see the marks, this is important, the Ha is now pointing out, away from your body.without changing your grip hold the sword out in front of you. With your right hand grab the tsuka right up close and touching your left hand like so.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks210.jpg
It's important that your hands are relaxed, Now squeeze with both fists and wa-la that sucker will pop open, at least this much, which is all you want.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks211.jpg
Another way is like so, using your thumb to apply pressure to the knuckle of your other thumb, like so.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks212.jpg
and the zato, again you close your hand and squeeze.yeah, I know my left hand is over the foul line.
http://i236.photobucket.com/albums/ff274/bokim09/bobspicks214.jpg

[Brian Brazier]

I believe Waki Gamae or (waki no kamae) is the Iai stance where you reverse your grip on the tsuka and cut upwards from below, the theory being (with a Katana in Iai/Kendo) that it allows you to conceal the length of the blade behind you initially.

All of this is coming from internet research and multiple contradicting books on the subject; not an actual sensei, don't take it as absolute information...

-CHug

OK, I know what your talking about, I haven't learned that one yet, but it looks like it would make double cuts on tatami allot easier (if done right). The stance looks like you unguarded, but from what I have seen by James Williams, it is really effective (then again every cut he makes looks good)

[RedZorak]

Waki no kamae

http://www.kaminox.com/starwars/images/saberduel3.bmp

(man with the blue saber... this was the best photo I could find in a short amount of time.)

Brian, when using waki no kamae, you generally are exposed. A quick cut to the head or a thrust could easily end the battle if you don't actually know how to use the kamae.

It exists in both iaido and kendo, for kendo it is pretty much useless in a one on one keiko (sparring), although it can be useful at times to confuse opponents (I've never actually seen it used in keiko though). It is used in some kata. For iaido, I haven't had much experience with it, but it is apparently used to hide the length of your blade (which is why it isn't used much in kendo, since most shinai are the same length), or to perform some movements without moving your blade.

As I have stated before, I am no expert, so feel free to correct me if I am wrong.

[CHuglas Munechow]

My Zato SH2267 arrived today. Looks like someone did a couple of test swings with it; the edge is still pristine but there are some arched scuffs on the shinogi. Also be warned that the Mekugi was hammered in place before the tsuba was varnished and attempting to remove it might crack the varnish and chip the wood surrounding the mekugi ana.

Test cutting on Friday... IF I can track down some beach mats and gather a few extra milk jugs. Maybe I can film/post some of the results if I don't embarrass myself too much.

[Brian Brazier]

I haven't heard of the varnish cracking when someone removes the tsuka yet, though it is possible, some light scratches on production swords is usual, I would give it a good polish with some Metal Glo, it should take out any minor scuffing

[bobO]

I had the same concern and it was not a problem. So Chug what do you think , like it!

[CHuglas Munechow]

Yeah, love this blade. Wicked bang for the buck. I'm going to cut the poo out of some targets tomorrow after work and will give more details. The white mune does strike me as odd... was it determined the mune was an actual clay temper that was acid etched afterwords? Looks brushed a bit too, but fully functional...

Knocking out the mekugi DID, in fact, split the varnish and chip the handle. I was being super careful too. Rubber mallet covered with cloth precise aim light frequent tapping. But the adhesive properties of the varnish uglied up the grip quite a bit. I'm not crying too much tho. Still a vicious chunk of steel for a very reasonable price and an elegant piece as well.

Did a rubbing of the tang so a buddy who reads chinese can tell me the date... idle curiosity I suppose.

[Brian Brazier]

All of the Paul Chen swords have an enhanced hamon which makes it look white, there is a real hamon under the enhancement, if it really bothers you, Metal Glo (after repeated use) will remove the enhancement, and bring out the real hamon

[bobO]

Yup, I did mine with Metal-Glo and it looks much better. Sorry to here about the varnish, cause I'm going to sand mine down anyway, I'm pretty sure this is a faux wood grain and I want something more natural looking. And I want to do the rattan thing, which I think Will be to cool.Still a lot of blade for the buck. Congrats!

[Torawashi]

great review bobO. i like the pictures, very artistic. good job