The Bugei line of katanas are made by Paul Chen to Bugei's standards. Bugei is known for an outstanding history of quality control.
The fittings they use are very beautiful. The hada and hamon are easily seen and the fit and finish is very good for production
swords.
Bugei has put a lot of research and quality control into their blades. They hire people like
Keith Larman and Ted Tenold to inspect their blades and correct any problems. However, there is a
price to pay for such quality. Bugei blades do not come cheap. If you have ~$1000 to spend on a katana I would definitely recommend Bugei.
As good as Bugei is, bugei swords are still only production level swords, and the fit, finish, koshirae, blade geometry, basically everything
can get much better, as well as much more expensive.
Don't take my word on Bugei, look for yourself.
Notice the correct geometry of the kissaki.
Notice how the ha and shinogi change direction
right at the yokote.
Notice the quality of the menuki and tight silk tsuka ito.
Notice the visibility and activity of the hada.
Bamboo tanto by Bugei.
Picture gallery of a crane daisho
Pictures of a Samurai katana
Pictures of a Bamboo katana
Common complaints with Bugei:
Costs too much
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