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Which Chinese Jian to get?

by Tom

QUESTION: I have to tell you first that your site is awesome! You really got me looking at the "Cold Steel Gim" but I also like the Paul Chen "Qi Jian".

I know that you really know your swords and you almost sold me on going Japanese but I must admit I am a Tai Chi freak so I want to stick with what best suits my style.

I want an indestructable razor essentially. I saw your tests on the Gim and I was blown away (other than the handle coming loose) but the solid construction of the Qi Jian seems to solve that problem. Man I just don't know what to do? Both swords turn me on... are you familiar with the Qi Jian by Paul Chen? I'm only buying one sword so I want it to be the last one. Please give me any feedback you can... not generic though (what ever I like kinda' thing) I read on your forum that some guy had to get his Qi Jian sharpened and they wrecked the sword... I really want a razor.... Qi Jian vs. Gim.... can't make up my mind? Please give me a push.

ANSWER: Lol, ahh the old 'not sure which one is calling me' dilema, I know it well...

Of course, the simple solution is to buy them both! ;-)

But of course, you said you are looking for 'the one', the best bang for the buck deal is the Gim - and it fits your description of an 'indestructible razor' down to a T...

A truly beautiful sword, and unlike the Qi Jian (which does have problems with the sharpness) - it is one of the sharpest and meanest swords I have ever had the pleasure of handling...

There is no contest in my mind.. And it really does look even more beautiful than in my review, pics cannot do this sword justice (the loosening of the handle only occured on some severe impact tests that would challenge ANY sword, and the fact that you can tighten it and dissasemble is actually a bonus for a 'working sword', not truly a serious issue at all).

Hope this helps! Let me know how you go..!

Best,

- Paul

Comments for Which Chinese Jian to get?

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Thanks - You made up my mind for me
by: Anonymous

I knew you would do it - that was the nudge I needed. I'm goin' Gim. Can't wait to get my hands on it! I'm from Canada so I have to pay a little more up here but from what I've seen on your site it will be well worth it. Thanks again.

'Twas a gentle nudge ;-)
by: Paul Southren

To be honest, I have a feeling that you weren't far off making the decision - 'twas a gentle nudge ;-)

Let me know what you think when you get it, I am sure you will find it is exactly what the Dr. ordered... :-)

Cheers,

- Paul

Go with the Qi Jian
by: Anonymous

Simply put the I would go with the Qi jian for the following reasons:
1) It is 4 oz. lighter than than the Gim.
Remember during a long practice session every
ounce counts.
2) You don't have to worry about any of the parts
flying off or becoming loose.
3) During practice everyone sweats, the ray skin
handle aids with maintaining a solid,
controlled grip- especially as your palms get
with sweat. The gim's handle is wood, whose
solidness and controllability decreases with
sweat build up.
Lastly, you should only sharpen the last two inches of the Qi Jian because the last two inches is where the power of the sword is focused. Remember the Qi Jian was designed for precise stabs and cuts. This is reflected in the bottom third's "ricasso" design for edge on edge parrying. The Middle third's "sharp" design for broad slashing. The last third's, especially the two inches including the tip, razor sharpness for controlled cuts and thrusts. Sorry about the wordiness and hope this helps. Best wishes, and pleas let us know which jian you decide on.

Rayskin Issues?
by: JL

Question about the rayskin wrapping on the handle of the Qi Jian- hopefully someone out there has some advice for me.

I recently acquired the Qi Jian, love it to death. I display it horizontally on two wall mounts. I take it down frequently to oil it down and care for it. However recently I noticed that the rayskin on the sword's handle has blistered away from the steel beneath it at the seam where it is wrapped. I am concerned and tried contacting the manufacturers, who wanted me to send it back to them for a new one. I really don't want to do that, as the one I have has deep sentimental value. Is there any possible way I can re-adhere the rayskin without breaking it? I think it may have something to do with the dryness of the winter weather. Preventative advice would also be very welcomed.
Thanks!

Response to JL
by: SlayerofDarkness

No one will see your question here, I suggest you submit it at the top of the page as a question to Paul. he'll point you in the right direction.
Hope this helps,

SlayerofDarkness (Brogdon Combs)

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