After developing the Dark Ages and Medieval foundation of Balaur Arms, the KOA product development team has released the first portion of its Asian Line – a focus on the Japanese Katana and Shirasaya.
The History of Balaur Arms
A few months ago, we asked Matt – our development lead – to explain the origins of Balaur Arms.
[We wanted to] make a better affordable sword – something we ourselves would want. A lot of the more affordable swords look good, but we found some that were clunky or poorly balanced – they didn’t FEEL like the higher-end swords. We wanted to make a line of swords that not only had historical dimensions and looked good, but also had performance that closely aligns with the historical inspirations and the best replicas. We wanted a Balaur sword to feel responsive and capable in the hand, a sword that if cared for could last generations, yet still be affordable.
Why the beginning of an Asian Line?
Because although some off our community is interested in only one era or origin – and many of our customers prefer European blades – we also have many customers that first come to us for a Japanese Katana, or whose appreciation for the craftsmanship of sword-making only grows as they learn more. Sooner or later, most of our community wants to compare and appreciate blades from different eras. We believe the principles of Balaur Arms can apply just as effectively across cultures. Balaur is about great detail and quality at a great value. Details you find only at the highest price points are available here – and they aren’t faked as they may be by other manufacturers.
You already have Iron Tiger, so what’s going on?
Iron Tiger Forge isn’t going anywhere – in fact, we are expanding that as well. Just as importantly, we are giving more and more direction to the craftsmen who make Iron Tiger. We couldn’t give that much direction when we first started working this those craftsmen. That’s changed. Iron Tiger Forge’s principles are based on offering authentic, historical details at a wide range of price points focused on Asian swords. We started with Japanese blades, but that focus has expanded and is expanding in to Chinese and Korean options. Iron Tiger remains focused on those principles and a broad offering, while Balaur is focused on a specific handwriting and price level.
What’s Next for Balaur Arms?
We’re currently chasing the great white whale (the Kriegsmesser) and other European models. Those will be the next additions to Balaur. No Captain Ahabs here, so the Kriegsmesser is not going to sink us (although it has tried.) Then we will switch to more Asian options. Expect the new European models to be available a the end of 2022, and the next Asian models to be available in the middle of 2023.
Buying a High-Quality, Traditional Katana
Of course we want you to try the Balaur Arms line of katanas. But we also offer high-quality katana swords for sale. Browse our selection today and discover the perfect katana to add to your collection.
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