Hanwei Paul Chen Nanbokucho Raptor Katana Sword

Okay, so let's move on to the second sword in the Hanwei Paul Chen Raptor Series, which is the Nanbokucho Katana (SH2416). Nanbochuko is a historical period which spanned from around 1332 to 1392. This period of time is historical because it encompassed sixty eyars of internal conflict in Japan. This conflict created a huge demand for more and bigger sword blades than ever produced previously. Several traditional designs of Katanas and swords became longer and wider. Some swords were just ridiculously huge! It is believed that this is the period where the Odachi was born You know - the super large sword that has a blade that measures an insane 49"!!

So, suitably named for this period, the Nanbokucho Katana is an impressive piece of artwork and mastery. The blade length of this katana is 30". It has a long kissaki, and yet a weight of just under 3lbs. The weight is what makes this kstana as surprising as it is because it still allows for its weilder to move and cut swiftly and accurately. It is very agile and even nimble enough for one to master double cuts.

The blade of the Nanbokucho is forged from 5160 high carbon steel that has been specially heat treated. This has producted a very high resilience and a greater tolerance for a misdirected cut that beats any conventional differentially tempered blade. Also, becuae of this heat treating process, it has enabled the Hanwei forge to be able to avoid excessive thickness of their steel. This allows the blade to replicate the weight and handling characteristics of the original Japanese Katanas. The Nanbokucho itself was designed for heavy targets.

If you want to take a closer look at this sword go to SamuraiSupply.com and you can own your Nanbokucho Katana today! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Paul Chen Raptor Moroha Zukuri

So, I mentioned we would look at the Paul Chen Raptor Sword Series, so the first sword we will look at is the Moroha Zukuri (SH2413). The sword is believed to have originated in the Heian Period which is from 794-1185. The originating design is said to come from the Tachi style blade by a legendary sword smith known as Amakuni. The style is seen as a link between the old Ken straight swords and the curved Tachi (and later Katana).

What really stands out about the Moroha Zukuri is that it has some unusual characteristics. For starters, it has a back edge on the top half of the blade, with fullers starting where this edge finishes and continuing to the hilt. This edge however, is deliberately left unsharpened for the benefit of Iaido practitioners used to working with more conventional blade styles. The blade itself is hand forged from 5160 high carbon steel and is mar quenched to an edge hardness of 57HRC.

The great thing about this Katana Sword is that the blade length is only 26 3/8" and the sword only weighs 2lbs 7oz. So, for functional purposes, this sword is very quick, and ideal for multiple cuts in light targets. Hanwei has really made an effort with the Raptor Series to make a sword that is versatile for many different types of users. The Raptor line harnesses the fact that we are not all the best cutters. Some are just starting, while others are perfecting their techniques. With the Paul Chen Raptor Series you get a lot of bang for your buck as this sword can handle a lot of abuse, and misdirected cuts while staying razor sharp.

If you are looking for a great cutting sword, check out our Paul Chen Raptors and buy yours today! If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at info@samuraisupply.com.