Category Archives: Store Product Info and Musings

Additional thoughts, information and hints for our sword lines and products, including detailed introductions of new swords as they come in, special discounts and more.

The Dragon Awakens!

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It has been several months in the making, but as we reach the tail end of 2024, the year of the Dragon, it is fateful that one of our original SBG sword brands – the Black Dragon Forge – has re-awakened!

The flagship product is of course the classic SBG custom Katana, now back with more customization options and a lower price than EVER before (indeed, we double checked with AI on this and found that there are literally nearly 24 MILLION different possible configurations (actually, there are more than this as we added a Wakizashi and Ko Katana option, but for each blade type – there are literally tens of millions of different design possibilities, ensuring that it’s extremely unlikely someone will accidentally create the exact same sword as yours).

$299.95

But the return of the custom Katana is just the beginning..

Black Dragon Japanese

In addition to the Custom Katana we have resurrected 4 classic Black Dragon designs, with more coming down the line in early 2025!

So without any further ado, here are the classic designs (and with classic, rewound pricing!).

RED BELLY BLACK SNAKE SWORD SET

$499.95 (set)

First designed in 2013 (the year of the snake) and appropriate for next year (another year of the snake) this wicked design is both attractive and supremely functional. For a blast from the past, check out Marco Saintes original evaluation and high level demonstration of exactly how these deadly swords could be theoretically used.

Marco certainly knows a trick or two about how to get the most out of these blades (sorry for the video quality, if you want to skip ahead the real action starts here).

YUKIKEN

This one is a true SBG classic and a design concept I have revisited on several occasions.

$329.95

With a solid bodied blade and sleek styling, it’s optimized for the cut and a very attractive package overall, with brass hamidashi fittings and a rayskin reinforced saya.

HOBGOBIN KOGARASU NAGAMAKI

It’s full name ‘Hobgoblin Kogarasu Nagamaki Ninjato’ is a bit of a mouthful, but it is the only way to describe this bad boy Bujinkan inspired blade.

$329.95

It’s the total package with the unique and mischievous Hobgoblin ‘Bakemono’ themed fittings, long black leather over black rayskin handle and deadly piercing and cutting Kogarasu blade geometry.

KAGETORAKEN

It’s nothing more, and nothing less, than a well balanced, clean lined T10 tool steel Katana with solid iron tiger in bamboo themed fittings, the Kagetoraken (Shadowtiger Sword) is attractive and extremely functional..

$274.95

Close up pic of the blade, engraving, tsuba, iron fittings and itomaki..

And that’s just the Japanese sword section…

Blade Dragon Japanese

Mid to High End Chinese Swords!

Since we shut down on Forge Direct Chinese in late October, we have had a blank spot where we previously had some mid to high end traditional Chinese swords. So taking it’s place – and making it next level – the Black Dragon Forge brings back some classic Forge direct designs as well as some stunning new ones that we had long sought to have made…

Amazing New Chinese Swords

Limited Edition Double Dragon Dao!

We asked our partners at the Black Dragon Forge to dig into their archives to see if they had it – and they did.. The double dao is one of my favorite personal sword types, and this is a rare fully functional set..

$999.95 set of 2

Only 15pcs are available, after which time it will be retired permanently. So if you are like me and have spent years looking for a set like this, here’s your golden opportunity. They are not cheap, and not for the faint of heart, but you will know it if they are calling you..

Double Jian “Yang and Yin” Set

Hot on the heels of the limited edition Double Dao, is a perenneial classic and another set of ‘twin’ blades, though in this case one is considered the ‘Yin’ sword and the other a ‘Yang’ sword and are optimized for two handed use..

$1,129.95 set of 2

Just be careful if you are twirling these razor sharp Jian, these are far removed from the world of flimsy Wushu blades and require the utmost skill and attention to create that whirling wall of steel effect that these blades are capable of in the right (and left) hands..

Wild Boar Jian

It is built as solidly as a boar, has a boar theme and well, it could likely take one out without too much fuss or ado..

$499.95

Despite it’s stout build and appearance, it is still easy to wield weighing a deceptively light 2.53lbs and its Damascus steel blade, a true delight to behold.

Yangling Dao

To round things off nicely, we need a solid mid level Dao – a no-nonsense martial arts grade single handed cutting sword. And here it is..

$429.95

What more need we say?

Forge Direct Classics..

Classic Peony Jian

We had this one since we started Forge Direct Chinese, and now it is back for good with the Black Dragon Forge – the aptly named Classic Peony Jian.

$599.95

Same quality, same price – and same beautiful workmanship.. Nice to see it back at SBG where it belongs.

Nine Dragon Jian

Here is another Forge Direct Chinese design that has been updated and re-imagined by the artisans at Shen Guanglong and Black Dragon.

$599.95

Cooler, and now more affordable than ever…

Black Dragon Chinese

Black Dragon Fantasy Swords

Sword of the Ancients

It’s another Forge Direct classic and back by popular request, this time more affordable than ever before and even with a custom scabbard option!

$429.95

With each one unique like a fingerprint, every sword is a one off..

Cimmerian Sword

Black Dragon dips it toe into more battle ready fantasy sword designs, this time with the Robert E. Howard inspired ‘Cimmerian’ sword, our take on a ‘common’ design found among the Cimmerian Barbarian peoples from whom Conan descended from.

$429.95

Watch this space for our version of Conan’s Atlantean sword coming soon..!

The Azure Flame Fantasy Longsword

Last but certainly not least, an ornate blue Flame battle ready fantasy sword – available in the original blue color, but also in red or black depending on your personal taste..

$529.95

Here’s what it looks like in the different color options:

Visually striking and with steel fittings and a quality monotempered 1095 carbon steel blade, it’s no mere decoration..

Black Dragon Fantasy

Quite a large announcement, and an excellent note to close 2024 out on – but just you wait to see what is in store for next year…

In the meantime, these first offerings from the re-awakended Black Dragon Forge should be enough to tide you all over for quite some time..! But stay tuned, because you ain’t seen nothing yet…

SBG Black Dragon Forge

2 More Sub $300 New Medievals from Swordier!

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We are excited to announce that Swordier has once again outdone themselves with the release of two new spectacular medieval swords, now available at SBG. These new additions—crafted with precision and care—are perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

First up is the 14th Century Knightly Sword, featuring a one-handed Damascus steel (folded carbon steel) blade with a hardness of HRC 55. This sword is meticulously balanced just 2.36 inches from its stainless steel cross guard and weighs 2.76 lbs. With a classic wheel pommel, an oxblood red woodcore faux leather lined scabbard, and an oxblood red wax cord handle wrap, this sword is both a functional weapon and a stunning display piece.

Model 1

The second model in this series offers a similar high level of craftsmanship, with a hexagonal pommel, black wax cord handle wrap, and brown faux leather scabbard. Weighing 2.65 lbs, this sword also balances 2.36 inches from the cross guard, ensuring optimal control and agility.

Model 2

With these new releases, Swordier continues to amaze and delight sword collectors, proving their dedication to quality and authenticity. Their growing collection of medieval swords has now earned its own dedicated page on our store, making it easier than ever for enthusiasts to explore and find their perfect blade. Don’t miss out on these exceptional new additions—visit our store today and discover the unparalleled craftsmanship of Swordier’s medieval swords.

Swordier Medieval

New Cleaving Swords from SBG and Swordier

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At SBG, we are thrilled to unveil two new additions to our collection of Swordier branded products that celebrate the art of fierce slicing, chopping, and cleaving!

The Orcrist Sword, inspired by the legendary blade from J.R.R. Tolkien’s “The Hobbit” and “The Lord of the Rings,” is a fully functional masterpiece. Forged with a sharp 65Mn Spring steel blade, steel fittings, and a solid brass ‘horn’ hilt, this sword is ready for rigorous use. Accompanied by an ornately decorated wood core scabbard lined with leather and accented with steel, the Orcrist Sword embodies elven craftsmanship and heroism.

Orchist Sword

Joining this iconic blade is the Medieval Falchion, a devastating cutting weapon that was frequently decpited in medieval tapestries (though with few surving examples) from the 13th century onwards. With a tough monotempered 65Mn Spring steel blade, designed for powerful, sweeping cuts, and a floral-patterned scabbard with steel fittings, this sword blends historical accuracy with practical functionality. The Falchion’s ability to deliver powerful blows makes it a must-have for enthusiasts and collectors who appreciate the raw strength of medieval weaponry.

Medieval Falchion

Both the Orcrist Sword and the Medieval Falchion are now available at SBG. Priced at only around $300 (the Orchist slightly above, and the Falchion slightly below), these swords look like they cost many times more and perform just as impressively.

This is truly a turning point for the industry, showing what is possible at this price point. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own these exceptional blades and bring a piece of history and fantasy into your home.

Swordier @ SBG

Editors Note: We erroneously published some information about how common the Falchion was on the battlefield due to it’s frequent appearance in many medieval manuscripts – however there are very few surviving examples, so the claim that they were the most common sword on the battlefield was probably a bit of a stretch (it might have been true at some periods, in some areas at some battles – but the generalization was indeed a little sweeping and has been corrected. For examples of historical Falchion in medieval manuscripts – check out this cool blog post)

Two New Medieval Swords from Swordier

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Swordier has done it again with another two remarkable sub $300 additions you could add to your medieval armory: the Flower of War sword and the Knightly Sword of War. These exquisite weapons, now available at Sword Buyer’s Guide Store, promise to enchant both collectors and western martial arts enthusiasts alike.

The Flower of War Sword

Crafted with an eye for detail, this sword features an intricately designed hilt and a blade that commands respect. Whether you’re a historical re-enactor or a sword collector, the Flower of War is sure to be a prized possession.

Intricate Design: The hilt is adorned with a floral motif, offering a nod to the artistry of medieval craftsmanship.

Battle-Ready: Sharp and perfectly balanced, this sword is ready for action or display.

Collector’s Dream: A blend of beauty and functionality, making it a must-have for any serious collector.

Explore more about the Flower of War sword here.

The Knightly Sword of War

For those who seek a robust and historically authentic weapon, the Knightly Sword of War stands as a symbol of chivalric valor. This sword, with its formidable presence, is a testament to the strength and honor of medieval knights.

Authentic Replica: Faithfully replicating the swords wielded by knights in battles, perfect for reenactments (though these are very sharp out of the box, so not recommended for stage fighting!)

Durable Construction: Made to withstand rigorous use, it’s as tough as the warriors who once bore it.

Timeless Appeal: Its classic design ensures it remains relevant for both historical and modern-day enthusiasts.

    Discover more about the Knightly Sword of War here.

    Swordier @ SBG

    Just landed: Latest Swords and NEW APOC Knives…

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    We’re thrilled to announce the arrival of three stunning new swords and two cutting-edge APOC knives. These additions are a testament to unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation, and we’re excited to share the details with you.

    CAS Owner Barry Ross’s Great Sword by Kingston Arms

    First up, we have a massive Great Sword designed by the esteemed CAS owner, Barry Ross, and expertly crafted by Kingston Arms. This impressive blade combines traditional design with modern engineering to create a truly formidable weapon.

    MSRP $499.00

    $375.95

    CAS 40th Anniversary “Ryujin” Katana

    Next, we celebrate the 40th anniversary of CAS with the limited edition “Ryujin” Katana. This luxurious sword features majestic Dragon-god themed fittings and a T10 tool steel blade with bo-hi. It’s a fitting tribute to four decades of excellence.

    MSRP$929.00

    $699.99

    Dragon King’s Modern Wakizashi

    From Dragon King, we introduce the modern Wakizashi with bo-hi. This sleek and stylish sword is a perfect blend of tradition and contemporary design, making it an excellent addition to any collection.

    MSRP $339.00

    $249.95

    APOC Knives Collaboration with Cold Steel Legends

    WALLACE LARGE PUUKKO

    WALLACE SMALL PUUKKO

    Finally, we have the next generation of APOC knives, developed in collaboration with Andrew Demko and Mike Wallace of Cold Steel fame. After two years of secret development and meticulous refinement, we’re proud to present these revolutionary new products. These knives represent the pinnacle of design and functionality, setting a new standard in the industry.

    Large $69.95
    Small $64.95

    Check out ALL the newest items available in our store HERE