I've just received an evaluation prototype of the "Musashi" sword that Sal D'Aquila - the prop maker of the Duncan MacLeod sword for the Highlander Television Series - is making. Here are a few observations, but keep in mind that this is the prototype and the final version will be somewhat more evolved and better done.

The handle is amazingly sturdy, compared with the Marto Sword of the Dragon. My prototype is in its virgin white, undetailed and unpainted. The top of its head is smooth and undetailed, as Sal decided to remain true to hardcore fans who want a sword as close to identical to the original television prop as possible.

The blade is fastened into the tang by an almost unnoticeable metal pin that uses a hex "L" shaped tool to unscrew out, similar to that used in combat folders. This hole is located 2 inches away from the tsuba, though the final version may have a second hole for added security.

The Kris Cutlery 29" blade was perfect for my 6 foot height, as I held the blade downwards and it didn't quite touch the ground. The balance was on this prototype was about 5" after the habaki, though Cecil Quierno of Kris Cutlery is providing some lighter versions of the blade. The blade isn't as bad as I had thought. While there are some grinding imperfections, there are no grind marks per se. The edge seems to be a bit of a cross between a saber grind and a moran edge. The moran edge is a concave cross sectional design which gives traditional Japanese sword edges their toughness and cutting power. This Kris Cutlery blade does not have a beveled edge that we've come to associate with Taiwanese fakes. It's finish is not as attractive as that of a World War II gunto but the blade appears to be very solid.

Somewhat tip heavy, the sword seems to be slightly better balanced than the Sword of the Dragon, though the final version may have superior balance with the lighter blade.

The habaki is the copper that I can't stand, though Sal will be receiving brass habaki's.

The tsuba is a rooster pattern similar to the one used on the TV series and similar but non-identical to the Marto sword. The fitting comes from D. R. Langenbacker who used brass. Brass is a bit goldish and yellowish, so Marto lovers may take some getting used to, though we're looking into the possibility of having these cast in bronze.

Sal had originally supplied these handles in pure white, and so the prop department may have added some antiquing paint details prior to filming. The kevlar compound is tough and will not yellow to UV light in the long run. In its use, knowing that the tangs will be 7" long and the handle material is tough, I have no qualms holding the dragon head and maneuvering the blade. I found this necessary to counter the heaviness of the Kris Cutlery blade, but again when it is lighter, this may be unnecessary.

In short, this prototype is of sturdy quality and what I've come to expect of a sword that is tougher for swinging around and using inasmuch as Kris Cutlery blades can be used for sparring or re-enactment. If used for this purpose, use extreme caution as the edge of the KC 29" blade is quite sharp and can result in serious injury.

In its current state, the prototype is not as attractive as the Marto Sword of the Dragon. However, the design is most certainly true to the First Season Prop sword. Paint detailing and "antiquing" can bring that "Muramasa" or "Hideo Koto" feel to this sword. With the lighter KC blade that's coming with a verified 7" tang, this sword may turn out to be a light maneuvering miracle. I have no doubts that this sword will satisfy those who want a Duncan MacLeod style sword that is close to the First Season Prop and that is also combatworthy to an extent. The ability to be able to hold near-original memorabilia that can be wielded without fear of breaking is a Highlander fan's dream come true.

It must be pointed out that the sword is marketed as a decorative sword rather than as a martial arts grade sword, for both legal and safety purposes. It is not possible to quantify how much abuse it will take, as everyone has thus far abused their own Highlander-style swords to varying degrees.

Caveat Emptor. The HSG is not responsible for accidents and injuries or breakages, nor are we the seller. We are only providing information. All transactions and inquiries should be directed to Sal D'Aquila.

Please direct all questions to Sal D'Aquila's Website.