If your looking for a sword for functional purposes with an attached last resort for a low price, this is the way to go. Although it's pretty well balanced, it took me a little time to get used to the extended handle. I recommend for any intermediate or advanced martial artist, but beginners might want to stick with the basics first.

Good for practice and a good beginners weapon. The weight is a little hard to get used to but otherwise well balanced. They look excellent in contest. 3.5 stars only because I've got some really nice hand crafted and obviously nicer and I am kinda spoiled by using them regularly.