Collecting and purchasing the right Sword for decoration purposes is a tough task. Considering the overwhelming variety out there, it is easy to spend money on the wrong item. Swords are made in several countries around the world but the Japanese are known to make the best. Even though these swords are expensive since they are handmade, decorative swords are relatively cheaper. Regardless, there are several factors you need to consider when it comes to buying decorative swords. Let’s discuss.
Factors to consider while buying a decorative sword
Decorative sword
When it comes to buying the best decorative swords, the first thing you need to ask yourself is how will you use the sword. The reason is that there are three different classes of swords: Decorative, Functional, and Sport Combat.
Decorative swords are simply made for decorative purposes. These swords are not made for combat purposes and therefore, should not be used as such. You can opt for cheaper decorative swords as well but it is better to spend your money on something that does not wear out within a few years.
Ranging from $14-$300, decorative swords are commonly made of stainless steel or untampered carbon steel. These swords are great for displaying purposes and neither cut nor harm anyone. They are sharp enough to cut weeds and brush. You can also have custom decorative swords made that will require little maintenance but will look great for years to come.
Functional
Functional swords are basically battle-ready swords. Their price range starts from $100. Similar to decorative swords, these swords are also typically made of carbon steel. Functional swords feature longer and thicker blade tangs that are forged as part of the blade.
As a result, these swords are made for those who wish to use them for combat purposes rather than displaying. Since these swords are used in martial arts and cutting exercises, the tips and thickness may vary, therefore, make sure that you check the product descriptions before buying one.
It is not that these swords cannot be hung on the wall. Considering their price and purpose, it is better to use them for cutting and practicing rather than simply displaying them in a glass enclosure. However, if you wish, you can also display them.
Sport combat
Then, comes the sport combat swords. These swords are somewhat similar to swords from fantasy literature as they are extremely battle-ready and will destroy or cut anything in their path. When it comes to a head-to-head battle, even the best battle-ready swords out there will break or damage.
However, sport combat swords are specifically made to withstand repeated blade to blade combat. Their design usually features rounded edges and tips, while the composition is heavier and thicker than functional swords. Therefore, their price range is somewhere between $90-$1000.
Finally, these swords come with a whole grip forged as one with the blade.
What is your price range?
Sword prices can be as low as $15 and will go up based on the quality and features. The major contribution to the price is made by the purpose. As mentioned earlier, decorative swords tend to be comparatively cheaper than combat swords as the purpose varies.
Knowing these rough estimates is important to help you narrow down your options. For instance, if your budget is $40, you do not need to waste your time and effort into considering a type that is simply not made for decoration.
What style do you prefer?
Once you have settled with the basics, it all comes down to personal preferences. Swords vary based on the region. American swords differ from Asian swords. Some swords are meant to represent historical accuracy or culture such as Roman or Viking, while other decorative samurai swords are only meant to be placed on a wall or flat surface.
Recommended Products:
Our Top Picks
Here is a quick look at our top picks for you to consider.
| Sword | Features |
| (Best-Overall)
Fully Tang Handmade Katana Samurai Sword |
|
| (Best-Budget)
Katana Sword Dragon |
|
Let’s look into these products in more detail.
Comparison Chart
Here is a quick comparison to help you choose the perfect decorative sword.
| Material | Size (Blade Size) | Color | |
| Larmuroki Demon Slayer Sword | Steel | 29-Inches | Black |
| Katana Sword Dragon | Metal | 27-Inches | Black |
| Fully Tang Handmade Katana Samurai Sword | High carbon steel | 29-1-Inches | Dark Knight |
Types of Swords
Asian Swords
While discussing Chinese swords, there are two major distinctions: the Jian sword and the doa sword. The Chinese doa swords were made during the Chinese Bronze era and feature several distinct qualities. Most notably, they have a slightly single-edge blade that is meant for slicing and thrusting during the conflict.
The other type is the Jian Sword, which is also known as the “Gentleman of All Weapons” since it is a simple double-edged sword. In addition to that, the Japanese samurai swords known as Katana also fall under this category. They are known for their long, single-edge blade.
African
Unlike Europe and Asia, the African swords have failed to gather much attention. However, there are three types that are quite common. The first is the khopesh, which originally came from Egypt. These swords feature circular blades that are meant for disarming rather than slicing.
The second type is called shotel, which originated in ancient Ethiopia. This type features a curved blade with a simple wooden handle to reach the enemies around their shields and damage their organs. These swords were usually effective against mounted cavalry, used to rip the enemies off from their horses.
And the third type is called Ida used by West Africa’s Yoruba people. These swords are quite distinct as the blade goes from being narrow at the handle to thicker by the tip. Some people say that the Yoruba people applied poison or pepper to the blade to make the slice deadlier.
American
As compared to African swords, the Americans have not focused on developing swords that much. As a result, they have fewer varieties. Therefore, the only known American type is called macuahuitl. These swords were mostly used by Aztecs and made using obsidian and volcanic glass.
Although these swords seemed harmless to many from the outside but could decapitate an individual. Today, most American swords are simply a modification or remodeling of the existing swords in the world.
European Swords
Finally, there are several varieties of swords that originated from Europe. The two-handed sword is the most common including the longswords and Scottish claymores. Since these swords were massive, builders used to weld them using two hands.
Another popular European sword type is the rapier. It features a long narrow blade with a sharp point, which is perfect for thrusting. Additionally, most rapier blades are not meant to be sharp except at the tip. Another noteworthy feature of this type is the hilt design that protects the handle during battle.
Next, comes the backsword. The swords that usually fall under this category include basket-hilted swords, basket-hilted claymores, and cutlasses. These swords feature single-edge blades with a thick back for support. Similar to the rapier, these swords also featured complex hilts that were often used by European cavalry.
Tips for buying decorative swords
Identifying quality
While purchasing decorative swords, you need to check the quality of the blade and the overall materials used for construction. Most preferable, the material should be carbon steel or aluminum. Plus, the handle and guard should feature sturdy construction. You can also opt for durable handle wrap materials along with customized wraps according to your needs and preferences.
Choosing a size
Keep in mind that an average katana size is around 40 inches. However, the size depends on the space available and the area where the sword needs to be placed or hung. Typically, swords are hung on the wall, which adds a unique feature to the house. However, make sure that it is placed in an area where there is proper lighting to highlight the sword.
Importance of aesthetics
The aesthetics play an important role when it comes to influencing a buyer’s decision. Not every sword type will match with the other decorative items in the same area. For instance, if you wish to highlight ancient discipline and elite social class, you can opt for samurai-style swords.
What swords should you put on your wall?
What type of swords you should put on your wall is an important question to ask yourself. Most of the time, people normally assume that it should be an expensive sword. However, the fact of the matter is that you should consider what the sword says about itself in addition to what it means to you.
Even though a good-looking expensive sword might be perfect for decoration but if it does not mean anything to you or does not represent anything, it should not be hung on the wall. So, fundamentally, your relationship with the sword is supposed to speak volumes.
Most modern homes tend to display shiny new swords as antiques. As a result, the item feels like a mismatch. However, that does not mean that you cannot place an antique item in your home, you simply have to make sure that it fits in.
How to present the sword?
The presentation of the swords is of utmost importance. Even though making a traditional arrangement of swords is slightly difficult but you can opt for minimalism, simplicity, and functionality. As a result, you can place the sword on a stand and let its beauty speak for itself.
You can also consider hanging the sword but be aware of its shape and size. If the sword is relatively large, it can be difficult to hang in a room with a low ceiling and furniture like sideboards, paintings, and sofas that are long. Therefore, while purchasing decorative wall swords, it is suggested to measure the area so that you can opt for the perfect match.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect decorative sword can be slightly tricky. This is why we have shared a list of some
important tips that will help make the process easier. To make sure that your investment is worth it, a better approach would be to define what the sword means to you and what it represents.
Our recommendation would be the Fully Tang Handmade Katana Samurai Sword, which is made from 1065 high carbon steel and is hardened and toughened to perfection. Furthermore, it features an ergonomic fit that allows a firm grip. Its overall durability and impressive craftsmanship make it an impressive decorative item as well.
On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, we recommend the Katana Sword Dragon , which is a representation of the Samurai Japanese culture. The sword is made from real metal blades and includes a high-quality Saya. However, as compared to its counterpart, the quality needs slight improvement.
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