About

Most companies insert a page here to talk fluff. We choose to let our products do most of the talking. This page's sole aim is to allow prospective customers to understand our philosophy and how and why we make swords. We offer you the chance to step into our shoes and get a sense of how we think about things. We think this is important as we are so much more than a sword store. Our philosophy will ultimately end up being reflected in every blade we forge so it's in your best interest to get to know us!

How we think about work:

We only have one mission at Jin Shi. That is to create affordable swords that will match or surpass the performance of well-made antique examples. We accomplish this by using modern, engineered steel while staying true to the thoughtful design inherent in antiques.

How we think about our customers

Ten Thousand Year Warranty:

In Imperial China, we would be subject to cruel and unusual punishment if our swords failed. In the 21st century, we offer a lifetime guarantee on sword failure. Our guarantee is transferable and is valid as long as Jin Shi is around to honour it.

Guiding Principles:

1: Jin Shi was founded with the spirit of integrity. We will do our utmost to keep that intact.

2: We strive to make the best swords for the money in the industry.

3: Finally, we treat your sword as our own and as if we could only ever have just one sword.

How we decide whether a sword is good or bad:

We use 3 progressive screens for the quality of a sword (both antique and modern). A screen acts as a filter. For example, if the first test is failed, it does not stand for further consideration.

First, we establish the context and how a weapon would perform according to its design. For example, Chinese swords were expected to face off against other short blades, long hafted weapons, heavy clothing, and armour. We do not evaluate swords for their performance in water bottle cutting. We evaluate a sword on how well it would stand up in certain scenarios. Manoeuvrability, structural integrity, etc all fall under this category. If it fails here, the other tests do not matter in the slightest.

Second, we look at "feel". While a sword that doesn't feel too good may perform well in its intended context, the feel of the sword separates the wheat from the chaff. Also, the feel of the sword is quite important for the enjoyment factor. While harmonics and handling fall under "feel", this is one factor that cannot be described in words. The only reliable test for this is the number of times you pick up and use the sword. Swords that feel bad tend not to be picked up too often...

Third, and lastly, we look at aesthetics for the enjoyment factor. Generally, we like a sword that exudes honesty. Just like with feel, it is hard to write down. Personally, I first look at the outline and see how the details mesh with the form. If the details disrupt the overall flow, it is too gaudy. While it is subjective, it also takes some experience. While a Chinatown display sword may look impressive to the uninitiated, it would look like a cartoon sword to someone with more experience. To pass the test, we should like a specimen more every single time we look at it.

When these 3 stars align, we've got ourselves a very nice sword!