I hand sharpened this sword after it was given as a gift to me for graduating College by a buddy of mine from Cali, I have several and was eager to compare it to the Cold Steal version Chisa Katana this sword after careful sharpening is Superb. I was able to hew through a Frozen piece of beef at the first swing (approximately 8 inches thick). If that were a human torso it would have cleaved a man nearly in two. I carry it now in the woods after redressing the blade in camo. Kudos to Karate Depot. Truly a Combat ready piece of steal from one of the oldest Sword makers in Europe. Toldeo steal!!! 5 Stars