I, and my fellow students, have used just about every ''padded'' sword on the market...including homemade varieties. ActionFlex is the absolute BEST for full contact. And I DO mean full contact: multiple opponent sparring often brings out the best and worst of people. The ActionFlex holds its own where cheaper weapons fail. Far less bending/whipping, excellent grip, and amazing seam strength. All the components are well put-together, and no other company in the world can touch ActionFlex's warranty. If you practice kobudo as dedicated and often as we do, you MUST purchase ActionFlex for your school.