If You Like 'em "Thicc", This Sword is for You!
7,679This is a review of the hand dao by LK Chen, a reproduction of a Song Dynasty sword. Showing you the results of my cutting tests and my opinion of the handling, fit & finish, etc.
It's quite an unusual design, or at least by most Western standards I suppose. It's intended to be wielded mainly with one hand but has a grip long enough to easily accommodate two-handed use. The blade is wide and angular with almost no point, sort of like a box cutter in overall shape.
Not heavy, but it's balanced with chopping power in mind, more so than speed & agility. It's certainly imposing and hits hard. Also a remarkably sturdy blade and durable edge. If you're looking for a practical, utilitarian cutting sword that is well made without breaking the bank, this one fits the bill.
https://lkchensword.com/shop-1/ols/products/song-hand-dao
*** Specifications ***
Overall length: 89 cm (35'')
Blade length: 65 cm (25.6'')
Blade thickness: 6.3 mm (1/4''), tapering down to 4mm (0.157'')
Weight: 1.1 kg / 2 lbs 6.7 oz
Point of balance: 18 cm (7'') from the guard
Blade material: GB 60Si2MnA spring steel (hardness 56-58 HRC)
Hilt assembly: Full tang, pinned(?)
Price: $330 USD / 412 CAD (as of March 29, 2022)
*** Music ***
"Liyan" by Elerya
https://opengameart.org/content/liyan
Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported (CC BY 3.0)
Outro:
"Highland Storm" by The Slanted Room Records
https://theslantedroom.github.io/steve.yee/
Used with artist's permission
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