Category Archives: Behind the Scenes

Important industry wide events effecting shipping, sword brands, laws or other really important announcements. Sometimes doubles with ‘Paul’s rants’

A Difficult Reality—What Tariffs Mean for Sword Collectors..

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We’ve always been transparent with our customers, and the truth is, we’re navigating a tough situation in the sword industry right now.

Sword prices are changing dramatically, and no one can say with certainty what the future holds. Since our first official update on the tariffs posted April 6th the situation has continued to worsen, going from an expected price rise of 30-54% to 145% – and still no end (or clarity) in sight..

This makes providing any information about the moving target that is the tariffs and China-USA trade war extremely difficult – as it is still not clear how it will all play out..

Here’s what we do know:

Swords already in the U.S. remain at normal prices (APOC, Hanwei, Kingston Arms, Legacy Arms, Ryujin), but once stock sells out, restocks will be significantly more expensive and/or significantly delayed (restocks, new models and the reboot of the Hanwei line are still progressing at the forges for now, however with impossibly high tariffs, all US based brands are avoiding any new imports until tariffs return to a reasonable level. Right now, with tariffs over 100%, all these brands have become cost prohibitive and are effectively a brick wall against imports).

Direct-from-China swords will be affected starting May 2nd (Black Dragon Forge, Project X, Swordier). We plan to build any cost of tariffs into the actual costs once they are known (currently it is not clear how much will be charged after May 2nd). Regardless, expect prices will rise sharply after May 2nd (existing orders will be addressed on a case by case basis). Naturally this is very disruptive to these lines and furthermore the sheer number of parcels in transit right now trying to beat the May 2nd deadline is a looming disaster of unprecedented proportions. We will not know how it will actually play out until it hits the May 2 ‘Paywall’ so stay tuned for an update on this accordingly…

Non-Chinese brands won’t see huge price changes (Darksword, Kingdom of Arms, Scorpion Swords, Windlass), though minor increases are likely over time due to inflation and increased material costs worldwide…

We’re hopeful that new U.S.-based sword manufacturers will emerge to fill the gap, but let’s be honest—makers like Valiant Armory, Albion, and Arms and Armor already charge premium prices, and that isn’t likely to change. We also are not expecting any local manufacturer to spring up and start selling $150 Katana made in the USA – so sadly we are facing whatever plan the powers that be have in mind is simply going to be very destructive and expensive for the sword industry..

What Happens Next?

Some of our projects have been delayed or shelved while we figure out the best path forward. However, some upcoming releases have made it through and will be released over the coming days and weeks.

Here’s a sneak preview of some of the new swords coming down the line:

Our biggest piece of advice right now? Lock in today’s prices before they disappear (especially on the landed stock lines, because once they are gone – some or many may never return).

We’ll keep monitoring the situation and sharing updates, but the future of affordable imported swords is uncertain—and once prices rise, they won’t be coming back down…

SBG Sword Store

THE USA WAREHOUSED LANDED LINES

Aka the Endangered List..

APOC
Dragon King
Kingston Arms
Legacy Arms
Ryujin

Go Big or Go Home: The Last Chance to Secure Swords at 2024 Prices Ahead of Tariffs and Trade War..

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Introduction
The sword market is facing a seismic shift. With new tariffs on Chinese imports set to take effect on May 2, prices are expected to skyrocket by 30-54% on all incoming shipments. If you’ve ever considered expanding your collection or stocking up, this is your last chance to do so before the price surge.

What’s Happening?
The U.S. government has imposed new tariffs on Chinese imports, with rates reaching 54% on swords and all other imported items.

This means that all swords arriving after May 2 will be subject to these increased costs, leading to inevitable price hikes. Additionally, any ‘direct from the forge’ orders—including Project X, Black Dragon Forge, and Swordier—will face delays and additional tariff charges for U.S. customers.


Why Act Now?

  1. Prices are locked at 2024 rates until May 2—after that, expect significant increases.
  2. Stock is limited—once current inventory is gone, restocking will come at a much higher cost.
  3. Tariff-related delays—ordering now ensures faster delivery before the new regulations take effect.

Final Call: Go Big or Go Home

This isn’t just another price adjustment—it’s a fundamental shift in the sword market. Whether you’re a collector, a practitioner, or a reseller, now is the time to secure your swords before the tariffs take effect. Once May 2 arrives, the value of swords will go through the roof.

Don’t wait—shop now and lock in 2024 prices while you still can.

SBG Sword Store

Forging Ahead: Updates from the SBG Armory

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We’ve been quiet on the blog front lately, but that’s not for lack of activity—in fact, it’s quite the opposite! So many small yet significant things have been happening that we’ve been more focused on the work itself than documenting every detail in the blog. But now feels like the perfect moment to share a few highlights with all of you, so…

First, a quick update on one of our bestsellers: Swordier blades. Due to their immense popularity, the wait times have extended slightly from 7 days to 7-14 days. For those who’ve seen these blades up close and personal, you’ll know why they’re worth every bit of the wait. With their perfect balance of affordability and craftsmanship, they remain a treasure in our collection.

Speaking of value, we’re thrilled to announce that the Legacy Arms series is back in stock! These medieval and fantasy swords are the epitome of bang for your buck—combining solid build quality with sub-$300 prices. Whether you’re a collector or a first-time buyer, these are swords you won’t want to miss.

A couple of our customers Legacy Arms Favorites

RESTOCKED: Legacy Arms Templar Knight Sword

Still Just $279.95

RESTOCKED: Legacy Arms Irish Hand and a Half Sword

Also still just $279.95

For the lovers of bold and barbaric style, the Black Dragon Forge Cimmerian Sword now comes with its very own barbarian-style scabbard option. It’s the perfect match for this striking blade, giving it the kind of dramatic flair that demands attention.

Just days ago, we also welcomed two exceptional new models from the legendary swordsmiths at Citadel into our collection. These are not just swords—they are masterpieces of craftsmanship, revered by connoisseurs and collectors alike. However, their rarity speaks for itself: with only two of each model initially available, we now have just one remaining of each.

Citadel Wolf Katana

Citadel Dragon Katana

Yes, these swords come with a price tag befitting their status as some of the finest blades available outside of Japan. But ask any expert, and they’ll tell you that the only thing surpassing a Citadel sword in quality is an actual Nihonto—a traditional Japanese sword made by master artisans in Japan. For the discerning collector who understands the value of unparalleled precision, exquisite detail, and historical authenticity, a Citadel blade is nothing short of a steal.

If you’ve been dreaming of owning a true masterpiece, now is the time to act. With only one of each model left, these treasures won’t linger long in our armory.

Citadel @ SBG

Lastly, a teaser: several exciting projects are nearing completion! Some may be considered mundane, but others have us genuinely buzzing with anticipation. Without giving too much away, let’s just say there’s plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks. Stay tuned—you won’t want to miss what’s next!

Thanks for your continued support and patience as we navigate this whirlwind of activity. As always, we’re here to keep your sword dreams alive, one blade at a time..

The Modern Katana Series is Complete!

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We are thrilled to unveil the latest additions to our ‘Modern Katana’ series: the new Tanto and Katana. Dragon King continues to redefine the timeless elegance and strength of the Samurai sword with a contemporary twist, combining traditional craftsmanship with the best of modern steel, construction methods, and scientific advancements.

Modern Katana with bo-hi: Evolution in Every Strike

The new Katana in our Modern Series is a sophisticated instrument designed for the urban warrior of today. It marries the best of traditional blade craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials, ensuring that every strike is as precise and powerful as its ancient predecessors.

Modern Tanto: Compact Powerhouse

Joining the bo-hi series is the new Tanto, a compact powerhouse that retains all the virtues of its larger counterpart. With the same meticulous attention to detail and high-quality materials, this Tanto is perfect for those who seek a low-maintenance yet powerful blade. It’s an ideal choice for the modern warrior looking for a practical and stylish option that seamlessly bridges the gap between history and modernity.

Why Choose the Modern Katana Series?

The ‘Modern Katana’ series by Dragon King stands out not just for its striking design, but for its innovative approach to sword-making. These are not mere Katana-shaped tactical blades; they represent the pinnacle of what the renowned Samurai sword would look like if it had continued to evolve with the latest technology. Combining tradition and modern science, our Katanas and Tantos are crafted to meet the demands of the present day without compromising on the timeless beauty and strength of the Samurai spirit.

Explore our new page dedicated to the Modern Katana series and discover how these contemporary masterpieces can elevate your collection or training experience, whether they be the new models with fuller or the flagship solid bodied blades, if Japanese swords had not stopped evolving, this is almost certainly what they would be today..

Modern Katana Series

Many (many) swords coming in from several major brands this week, so stay tuned.. It’s going to be a busy and fun one!

It’s the final countdown..!

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Yes, I know – I’m showing my age with this song, but it could be the theme song of what’s going on at SBG right now..

In addition to major discounts on some of Dragon Kings finest products poised to end one minute before midnight on the 28th of February, at the same time the FINAL shipment from the original Hanwei forge (many of whose workers will move to work Frenchie Jin at Dragon King, which now technically owns the entire Asian Hanwei line) has just arrived..

Not a lot of restocks, though enough so that they should have some original Hanwei stock left in a few more months. But smart buyers are already snapping up the last bargains, some that are going to go so fast it’s not even worth telling you about them because by the time I publish the listing, they will all be sold already..!

So the FINAL COUNTDOWN on these swords come in for the last time really is on…

HAVE AT IT!

Hanwei SALE @ SBG

P.S. In this final sale mayhem, there are a few treasures that have just popped up for the VERY last time.

ORCHID TANTO

It has not been in stock in a looong time, and with half a dozen of these amazing Swedish powder steel blades left, don’t expect them to be around for much longer.

RENAISSANCE DAGGER

This beautiful carbon steel blade with solid, real fittings was to be a new model, but with only 9 available at the time of this blog, it’s going to be very much a case of hello and goodbye.. Just $204.99.

TANG JIAN

Here’s another one not seen in years, and maybe never to be seen again. If you are into serious Taiji or Kungfu, don’t let this one get you by – especially at the closeout price (just 3 left at the time of publishing).

A few more swords from this final Hanwei shipment to be added soon – so stay tuned.. But if you see a bargain and the quality is getting low, just a small delay could mean it gets oversold and you miss the final opportunity..