[jthuang]

http://www.dguertin.com

Considering a usable (not wall-hanger) jian in the $400-500 range. Cold Steel's "Gim" is too heavy (2 3/8 lbs). Same with Kriss Cutlery's jians (2.2 lbs).

On Paul Chen's jians, I want something a little nicer in finish. I am aware that Paul Chen has Damascus jians that are nice but I'd like to avoid Damascus for now.

Yes, I will be seeking formal training.

Swordforums reviews of Guertin's products are generally good, although there are not many reviews of such swords. Knifeforums.com came up empty.

Might consider one of his katanas as a wall-hanger, but that will come later. Swords are addicting. :D

TIA.

[Jim March]

Dunno anything about him per se. I do know that the 1040/1070 series steels ain't bad but in my opinion 5160 as used by Himalayan Imports spanks it good :).

You might want to look at:

http://www.himalayan-imports.com/sword.html

http://www.himalayan-imports.com/tibetan%20sword%201.jpg

Called a "Tibetan sword", obviously related to Chinese designs. You can special-order it lighter and double-edge and get something very close to what you want, in better steel at a lower price.

[jthuang]

Jim: thanks for the info, I have seen HI products and they get stellar reviews on swordforum.

[Ohen Cepel]

Don't know about that maker.

www.bladeforums.com may be a good place to also look for info.

[jthuang]

Thanks, I forgot to mention that I checked bladeforums too.