I loved this sword it was one of my first ones that I actually used it's easy to use and can be a blast however be aware you should never EVER swing it in a sideways fashion in other words don't "slap" the side o the blade against anything substantial or you will regret it I certainly did other than that it's fantastic and I will certainly be buying another one to match my current blade P.S also it's not one solid piece it's welded together right in front of the handle however if you use it properly you should never have a problem with this