The best of the world’s sword fighters have known a simple truth for ages… if you want to become a reasonably good sword fighter you should endeavor to learn sword fighting techniques, footwork and the basic stances. However if you want to be a master at sword fighting you have to eventually start fighting with a “live blade”. If your ultimate goal is to wield a razor sharp sword safely and effectively, you need to train with a sword that approximates the size, feel and heft of a live blade, yet minimizes the possibility of causing grievous, permanent, or life-threatening injury to yourself or your training partner. This concept was implemented by the ancient Romans, who used dull wooden swords to train their Gladiators and soldiers. And Japanese Samurai used a wooden training sword that was called a Boken. It’s an elegant solution to a vexing problem and effective enough to still be used today. The only problem is that a wooden sword can rot, crack, chip or splinter and eventually become useless. Cold Steel’s solution to these dilemmas was to design a synthetic substitute, low in price and impervious to the elements. The Cold Steel line of Training Swords are made of the heaviest grade polypropylene available and closely duplicate a real sword in length, size, weight and feel. While they’re not quite as rigid as wood, they have the winning advantages of being virtually unbreakable, remarkably stiff and cut resistant.
| Overall Length | 39 1/2'' |
| Blade Length | 32 1/4'' |
| Weight | 1 lb 14.1 oz |
| Edge | N/A |
| Width | 49.2 mm |
| Thickness | 28.4 mm - 23 mm |
| Pommel | N/A |
| P.O.B. | 9 1/4'' |
| Grip Length | 4 /4'' |
| Blade | [Polypropylene] |
| Manufacturer | Cold Steel |
| Country of Origin | Taiwan |
Julian –
Sturdy, but Blade Heavy I bought this sword as a novice to practice some HEMA techniques, only to realize how blade-heavy it is. At least for me, I’d want a point of balance of at least six inches rather than the nine as stated in the description. Otherwise it makes it quite hard to use with a shield.
Andrew –
Plastic Club I bought two of these swords and have done a lot sparring with them. It is true that they are near indestructible, however, that is where my positive comments end. The balance and weight is horrible, which makes the trainer extremely dangerous to use in sparring unless wearing some serious protection. This abysmal balance also makes it difficult to even use the trainer as a sword. I would recommend only using this trainer for solo drills to improve muscle strength.
Shonen –
This should ONLY be used for strength training. Balance is a joking and if you tried to spar with this, you will break something. I was an idiot when I was younger and sparred against this. I got luckily to not get hit. On the plus side, it really is during as I was using my old fencing sabre against it and it took all the blows like a champ. So did the other guy I was sparring with
Robert –
Before I bought 2 of the swords I had a chance to try one out. At the time I was quite pleased. I had to make 2 changes to my wasters. (1) The tips were rounded off for safety reasons. (2) The pommels were modified (Rounded & radiused for easier use). As a result, with the swords I now own, I am most pleased and impressed. Size not withstanding, the wasters are identical (regarding balance and feel) to the training sword I made, albeit a tad heavier. As with anything, (manufacturing included) we are all learning. Long story short, I am happy.