This $500 Shinto katana has caused a stir among the aspiring replica sword-collecting community. Clearly, this katana is of greater value than any stainless steel replica, as it was made to traditional Japanese katana specifications, however, with some exceptions, mainly the blade.

The two deficiencies in the blade are both cosmetic and structural. Cosmetically, the hamon could look much more attractive. Structurally, the spine at 20 Rockwells may be too soft, and the edge at 60 Rockwells may be too high. Tempering the blade in your home oven correctly could bring the edge down to 59 Rockwells, which would be a significant improvement.

Normally, a good approach to purchasing a katana is to have the blade made by Bob Engnath and then having him forward the blade to Fred Lohman who is excellent as a one-stop-shop provider for Japanese sword furnishings, blade polishing, handle-carving, handle wrapping, customization, etc. The resulting sword ends up being approximately $1,400.

Since you purchased the Shinto Katana for approximately $455-500, you may not want to spend too much beyond that. It is possible to only upgrade the blade so that the blade can be used in its current handle and scabbard, thus protecting your current investment.

Bob Engnath charges US$9.00 per blade inch. A 28" katana results in a $252 investment. Christopher Lau can provide blade-polishing also, but you will need to contact him directly for a special price. Including shipping back and forth, you have several alternatives for polishing depending on your budget. A middle-of-the-road "white polish" for cutting use can be had for a flat rate of around $200 or so (surcharge for extra long blades; for this particular project, no extra charge for re-shaping of the tang and fitting to existing furniture including rasping and fine-tuning of scabbard if needed). There are cheaper alternatives or more expensive ones available depending on what you want to see on the blade and what you want to use it for.

All in all, you're looking at spending an extra $500 or so, but your katana will end up being in the $1,100 range. The alternative is to purchase a new sword altogether.

Upgrading your sword to a reputable Engnath blade means a tougher sword - and a more attractive one. But keep in mind that it is not invulnerable to abuses, just like any traditionally made Japanese sword. It is your responsibility as the sword owner and wielder to use the sword correctly, and for the purpose and design for and by which it was created.