Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword
The Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword is more than just a piece of plastic; it’s a modern take on a centuries-old training tool. Cold Steel has crafted this bokken from polypropylene, offering a durable and weather-resistant alternative to traditional wooden swords, and making it an essential tool for martial artists.
I was looking for a safe and effective way to practice my sword techniques at home without risking injury or damaging my expensive steel katana. The Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword seemed like the perfect solution.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the polypropylene. It has a substantial weight and a comfortable grip that mimics the feel of a real sword. The build quality felt solid and well-made.
Compared to cheaper foam or wooden practice swords, the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword felt like a significant upgrade. I chose it because of its durability, realistic weight and balance, and the reputation of Cold Steel for producing high-quality training tools. My initial impression was one of excitement; I was eager to start training and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword in my backyard, practicing basic sword forms (kata) and paired drills with a training partner. The weather was dry and mild, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The bokken felt surprisingly balanced in my hand and allowed me to execute techniques with reasonable speed and precision. I was pleased with the grip which was firm even with sweaty hands.
After about an hour of practice, I noticed a few minor scuff marks on the blade from contact with my partner’s bokken, but no significant damage. There were no unexpected issues, and the bokken performed exactly as I had hoped it would.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword has held up remarkably well. It has become a mainstay in my training regimen.
Despite numerous impacts and collisions, the polypropylene material shows minimal signs of wear and tear. I clean it with a damp cloth after each use, and it requires virtually no other maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with wooden practice swords that would often splinter or crack, the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword has far exceeded my expectations. It has proven to be a durable, reliable, and safe training tool.
Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Cold Steel. Cold Steel is a well-known company in the industry, famous for durable products.
- Color: Black. The color is simple, tactical, and hides scuff marks well.
- Blade Length: 30 in. This provides a realistic feel and appropriate length for practicing various sword techniques.
- Blade Material: Polypropylene. Polypropylene is incredibly durable and weather-resistant, making it an ideal material for a training sword.
- Weight: 19.9 oz. The weight is significant enough to simulate the feel of a real sword without being too heavy for extended practice.
- Handle Material: Polypropylene. This matches the blade material, ensuring a consistent feel and durable grip.
- Overall Length: 41.5 in. The total length replicates the size of a katana.
- Handle Length: 11.5 in. A comfortable handle length to provide good control.
- Blade Thickness: 1 in. The robust blade thickness enhances its durability.
These specifications are important because they contribute to the overall feel, balance, and durability of the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword. The polypropylene construction ensures it can withstand rigorous training, while the realistic dimensions provide an authentic training experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword performs exceptionally well as a training tool. It allows me to practice my sword techniques safely and effectively.
Its strengths lie in its durability, realistic weight and balance, and comfortable grip. One weakness would be the lack of a textured grip, which could be improved for better handling in wet conditions.
It has met and exceeded my expectations for a training sword. It allows me to train safely and without damaging any equipment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword is excellent. The polypropylene material feels solid and durable. The weight is well-balanced and comfortable in hand.
The design is user-friendly, with no learning curve. The bokken is ready to use straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the polypropylene construction, the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword is expected to last for many years. The material is highly resistant to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. This is perfect for rigorous training.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword comes as a standalone training tool. There are no included accessories.
There are limited customization options available, as it is primarily designed for functional training. Some users may choose to add grip tape for improved handling, but the core design remains consistent. The absence of many accessories keeps the focus on the training experience.
Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The polypropylene construction ensures that the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword can withstand rigorous training without cracking or splintering.
- Realistic Weight and Balance: The weight and balance closely mimic that of a real katana, providing an authentic training experience.
- Weather Resistance: The polypropylene material is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, allowing for training in various conditions.
- Safe Training Tool: The bokken allows for safe practice of sword techniques without the risk of serious injury.
- Low Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance, simply clean with a damp cloth after use.
Cons
- Lacks Textured Grip: The smooth polypropylene handle can become slippery in wet conditions, potentially affecting grip.
- Limited Customization: There are few customization options available, which may limit its appeal to some users.
Who Should Buy Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword?
- Perfect for: Martial artists (Kendo, Iaido, Kenjutsu), stage combat performers, historical reenactors seeking a safe training tool. Anyone interested in practicing sword techniques safely and effectively will benefit greatly from the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword.
- Who should skip this product? Those seeking a sharp or bladed weapon, or those who prefer the feel and aesthetics of traditional wooden bokken.
- Must-have accessories or modifications? Grip tape or textured gloves to enhance grip, especially for training in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword
The Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword is an exceptional training tool that offers incredible durability, realistic weight and balance, and excellent performance. Cold Steel has delivered a product that meets the needs of martial artists and historical reenactors alike.
The price of $28.89 is more than justified, given the quality of the construction and the longevity of the product. It provides great value for money.
I would highly recommend the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword to anyone looking for a safe, durable, and effective way to practice their sword techniques. Equip yourself with the Cold Steel Bokken Training Sword and elevate your training to the next level!