shortening/modifying handle on a Hanwei katana

[peri_pheral]

Hi all- I own a Hanwei "practical pro" katana that has a very nice lightweight blade, but the handle is just too long for my taste. So I'd like to modify the handle by shortening to just after the second pin and rewrapping with a more authentic silk wrap (faux leather wrap currently in place). Is this something that can be done, or is there someone I should contact to perform these mods? I have a feeling it is more work than I'm thinking so it might not be worth it. Any help and/or experience from the forum is much appreciated.

 

[aguila327]

In my experience you'd be better off looking for another Hanwei with a shorter grip. Unless you could do most of the work yourself the cost wouldn't make it reasonable.

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[Triton]

In my experience you'd be better off looking for another Hanwei with a shorter grip. Unless you could do most of the work yourself the cost wouldn't make it reasonable.

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Seconded.

 

[NihontoEd]

To answer your question, it can be done. But I agree that on a PP with a value of $300-$400 it is not worth it. It wouldn't be to me at least.

Re-wrapping a Katana tsuka will run around $200, altering the tsuka core or remaking a tsuka core would be additional.

 

[peri_pheral]

thanks to everyone who replied, I was afraid that would be the case but wanted to get some input from more experienced individuals. I think I'd be better off selling the one I have now and putting the money towards something else. I also have a Wind and Thunder by Hanwei. I prefer the handle on that one but the blade is too heavy. I can't seem to win yet, but I'll find it....

Thanks again.

 

[Kohai999]

thanks to everyone who replied, I was afraid that would be the case but wanted to get some input from more experienced individuals. I think I'd be better off selling the one I have now and putting the money towards something else. I also have a Wind and Thunder by Hanwei. I prefer the handle on that one but the blade is too heavy. I can't seem to win yet, but I'll find it....

Thanks again.

Too heavy for what?

The Wind and Thunder is a well balanced blade with excellent cutting characteristics.

If you can take this the right way......it may not be that the sword is too heavy, but that you are physically unable to use it correctly.

Getting stronger and more capable is always a valid goal.

Best Regards,

STeven Garsson

 

[Derzelas]

thanks to everyone who replied, I was afraid that would be the case but wanted to get some input from more experienced individuals. I think I'd be better off selling the one I have now and putting the money towards something else. I also have a Wind and Thunder by Hanwei. I prefer the handle on that one but the blade is too heavy. I can't seem to win yet, but I'll find it....

Thanks again.

To sell one you don't like is a much better deal than trying to shorten it. You will win if you train diligently to use the heavy sword. There are all type of exercises to accommodate yourself with a heavier sword. One of them is to just hold the blade horizontal in your extended arm (not overextended mind you) 10 seconds. When you can do that easy, move to 20seconds, 30 seconds, a minute etc. It's an isometric exercise that will help in long run to develop sword muscles.