Performance Series Japanese Swords

CAS/Hanwei is proud to introduce the most significant advancement in our katana line to date; the Performance Series. Featuring four distinct blade variations (Iaito, Katana, XL, and XL Light) each sword has been designed from the ground-up, with blade geometry specially adapted to the needs of each Japanese martial arts discipline. Currently offered in four formats (Tori, Musashi, Practical Plus, and Practical) with more to follow, the series feature a wide range of steel type and furniture styles to meet every budget. Below is a summary of the four distinct blade variations in the Performance Series.

Iaito-Frequent Drawing Practice
         These unedged training blades provide for safe drawing for the beginning practitioner of the 450 year old art of laido. Forged
         from stainless steel the tempered blades are not only maintenance-free but more importantly provide the correct weight and
         balance needed for the rigors of repetitive drawing and sword motion practice. Each blade has a deeply cut groove (bo-hi) to
         provide audible feedback when swung properly.

Katana-Frequent Cutting / Occasional Drawing Practice
            Our Katana Blades embody the classical design elements of the most prolific sword design in history. With their strong
            Shinogi Zukuri shape that accentuates the differential heat treatment, these blades are traditionally proportioned to
            appeal to the collector but they will also perform well in general cutting of hard or soft targets.

XL-Heavy Competitive Cutting
     Designed strictly for competitive cutting, our XL Katana blades incorporate the geometry, strength, weight and profile needed
     for successful cuts on substantial targets. Featuring differential heat treatment and a narrow edge angle, these wide blades will
     reward good technique with clean cuts and excellent durability.

XL Light-Competitive Cutting / Light Weight
              The XL Light blades feature the same geometry as those of the XL but incorporate deeply cut grooves (bo-hi) to reduce
              the weight of the blade while retaining most of its strength and cutting ability. This weight reduction makes for a quicker
              sword, well adapted for multiple cuts in lighter targets.