[TLock762x51]

I can't think of any actual situation where I would carry a sword. If we're talking about a possible zombie outbreak, then sure...a sword might be a possibility, although I still believe I'd prefer a baseball bat.

However, short of zombies, I believe the extra weight and space used to carry a sword would be better spent carrying either a handgun, more magazines/ammo, more water, etc. Sure, I'll have a decent sized knife, either my Kukri or CR Project I, and one or more smaller knives.

Tim

 

[WoadWarrior]

The thing everyone seems to ignore when they talk swords is that they are not made to be used in combat.... at least not the replica ninja or samurai swords everyone seems to have stuck in a closet somewhere. The tang is way too small... and will bend or break the first time you try to slice through a neck or large bone. On the other hand.... if you want a useable sword... you'll pay around $800 on the extreme low end... and upward of $2000 for hand folded steel. So... if you can afford that... then you should have a really nice gun and a butt-load of ammo and wouldn't actually need a sword. A good knife or two on the other hand... is a great idea.

 

[BigRich]

I tried buying an authentic Kurki for my collection.
They would not ship to the U.S. only Asia

Might I suggest Himalayan Imports? They get their kuhkris from nepal and ship from Nevada.

 

[Retronatrix]

I'm not much in to weaponry just yet. That being said.....it seems like most swords in America are the cheap, lightweight flimsy stuff usually created for collectors to have economical repro for wall hanging, or game/movie tie-ins. I wouldn't put much faith in the majority of available swords vs a good machete as mentioned above. A good military tactical knife, machete and maybe a good hatchet or two would be my choice.

 

[AK_Zero]

Do you know how to actually wield a Katana in combat? The proper maintenance and care? How to do proper tsuka-maki?

I know this is my first post, and I'm not trying to be negative - but I often hear of people saying they would carry a sword (specifically: a Katana) with them in a shtf scenario. My first thought is: "You're going to die."

Most dachi you will get your hands on are not combat ready, and usually aren't for under a couple of thousand dollars starting. Combat technique with a Katana is not something you can instinctively learn, like you could with a European style broadsword. Hacking and slashing will not a kendo master make you. You'll more likely get it stuck, broken, damaged beyond usability, or hurt yourself. Plus you expose yourself to all sorts of blood splatter and therefore blood borne pathogens.

I -can- use a katana. I've got almost twenty years of martial arts and kendo training....and I wouldn't take a sword into a shtf scenario. Any of my firearms, or knives, would do me much better. Hell, a good ol louieville slugger would be a better problem solver.

A good large knife would probably serve you better and with more utility. Leave the swords for Hollywood.

That much said: If you do know how to use one and have a good quality one, go for it. There's probably worse ideas then wielding a relatively cumbersome bladed weapon in close quarters.

 

[PrepperThyAngus]

Katana is a bit too long. If you were in a urban enviroment, hallways, or small room...you would be screwed. I always recommend a great survival knife. I use a ESEE-4, fantastic knife and will last forever. A machete would be a better substitute. Or perhaps a demolishing hammer like ... Would have more than one use besides bashing skulls.

 

[JDE101]

I have carried a knife of one type or another since I was a kid back in the 50s. Back then, most boys carried a pocket knife all the time--even to school -- and nobody thought anything of it! Now, kids can't even take plastic silverware knives to school in their lunches! I always have at least one knife on me at all times (except in bed or the shower). I also carry a .45 or .38 with me everywhere it is legal to do so. Personally, in a SHTF situation I don't intend to let anyone within sword or knife range! So I sure don't intend to carry a sword.

 

[BoneHead]

I would rather have a quality machete than a sword. even a quality hand made shinken has its limitations. most people cannot properly care for such a weapon much less be able to wield it effectively.

I laugh at people that talk about hacking through hordes of zombies with a cheesy katana they bought online or at the mall for 50 bucks. most people don't realize what it takes and that Iaido is an old west gunfight at high noon and a chess match at the same time. they need to visualize their strikes before they draw and have the skill to deliver them.

I read what they people are talking about and imagine them running around swinging a sword like a wiffle ball bat yelling HA YAH!

if SHTF people will need tools not toys.

 

[punch]

Well in that case I'm carrying my trusty light saber and plasma rifle as back-up.

 

[Verteidiger]

Would I carry a sword in a SHTF scenario?

Umm...NO.

 

[Fuzzee]

Knives and machete. A machete is basically a short sword for chopping. It's just not a traditional sword in the sense of using it to defend with blocks of another sword and not snap before the fights over. It's a very good general shtf tool though depending where you're at. Useful for making shelter, batoning, cleaning fish and game is need be, and a pretty good defensive/offensive weapon too. I currently have a Cold Steel Latin Machete on my BOB and like it a lot. I've had a few over the years and think it's a keeper. Comfortable grip, flexible, but strong blade with excellent ability.

 

[Blackcat]

My Benchmade folder and a large fixed blade if I have room. After that I might consider a machete for slightly more reach. A machete is useful as a tool and weapon. After that possibly some sort of sword. I have over twenty years of martial arts training and know how to use a sword but I likely wouldnt even attempt a katana type sword. Theres a lot of other factors tat I have actually been considering... long or short sword, double or single edge. Also there is what has been mentioned that most modern swords arent fit for combat. Even some of the higher end so called 'combat quality' swords ive seen are questionable at best. If I was to use a sword or a machete for that matter I would only use one ive made myself. At least I can be sure of the quality and various attributes.

 

[Smitty901]

No carrying a sword is like putting a target on you that says shoot me. do not bring a sword to gun fight.

 

[jgriner]

knife, yes, knifes are so great in survival situations.
sword, no.
Multiple guns, yes.

 

[user999]

Blade is no1 tool I would be carrying in case of SHTF. Cold Steel Recon Tanto is my choice. Heavy duty.

 

[Anthony]

I would carry my favorite bowie knife, Also a machete.

-Anthony

 

[ozo]

We don't have zombies here......it's illegal.

I like sticks !!!
A good rattan stick will trump a knife in close quarters.....provided.....
you have become familiar.
I still carry knives....fixed blades are the strongest.
Smooth edges for close combat...not serrated.
My Cold Steel Ti-Lite folder is awesome....opens on deployment.....
A very inexpensive Schrade-Old Timer Sharpfinger is very universal.
It kicks ass in many ways.
A Bear Grylls is a good pack knife.....for $50 you get a strong knife,
good sheath, fire-starter, and a diamond sharpener.....don't let the
'hype' cause you to think otherwise.
My Puma Skinner is a knife to be reckoned with.......$13 at Gibson's
in 1970.......
A decent knife today does not have to cost you $200..........
A machete.....like a Fiskars.....is affordable, and a necessity, and quality.
A good kitchen knife is priceless when you bug out...or bug in.
More knives.....the better.

 

[ozo]

P.S. I LIKE STICKS........
Did I mention that ?

 

[shadownmss]

I would go with a machete, cold steel makes a cross between a katana and a machete. This may be a future purchase.

Katana Machete - Cold Steel Knives

 

[Blinddog]

I would carry a good fixed blade knife and a machete and my SKS.