Hanwei Oxtail Dao Sword, High Carbon Steel, SH1011
[SH1011-PC1011]

First, let me preface this review by singing the praises of Warriors and Wonders. Great site, great prices and fast shipping; who could ask for anything more. You guys are my favourite online retailer for sharp and shiny stuff.

Now to the sword. Like going to a buffet and getting full after one plate, this was a case of the eyes and brain being to big for the rest of me. I had been ogling this sword and the practical version for some months and finally ordered one. My first impression when handling the sword was that it was very light and quick in the hand; perhaps too light.

Something seemed off about the handle and with a little twisting I noticed the pommel would rotate independent of the small eyelet at it's centre. I unscrewed the eyelet and my fears were confirmed, this "weapons grade" sword had a RAT TAIL TANG! I don't know about the rest of you, but a skinny rod shoddily welded to the blade does not scream "weapons grade" to me.

Even without the aforementioned rat tail tang, the overall fit and finish of the sword and scabbard is unremarkable. The brass fittings and wood look like they belong on a piece of Z grade furniture and are rather ugly.

If the one star rating wasn't clear enough, allow me to clarify. Save your money, go buy a Condor Dadao, or some other full tang sword and leave this one to the wall hangers.