Cold Steel Butterfly Swords Review

Let’s Dive into Cold Steel Butterfly Swords

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords are more than just a pair of blades; they are a cultural artifact, a martial arts tool, and a collector’s item all rolled into one. Cold Steel has taken this iconic Chinese weapon and created a modern interpretation that balances tradition with functionality. For years, I’ve admired the intricate movements and deadly grace associated with butterfly swords, and I was eager to experience their handling firsthand.

My interest in butterfly swords stemmed from my involvement in historical martial arts and a desire to expand my understanding of edged weapons beyond knives and larger swords. I had been searching for a set that offered both good handling and decent quality without breaking the bank. Upon unboxing the Cold Steel Butterfly Swords, I was immediately struck by their weight and the secure feel of the cord-wrapped handles.

Compared to other butterfly swords I had seen or handled, the Cold Steel offering seemed to strike a good balance between affordability and build quality. Many cheaper alternatives felt flimsy or had poor edge geometry. Other, more expensive options, were often beyond my budget for a weapon intended primarily for practice and historical appreciation. My first impression was a mix of excitement and cautious optimism.

Real-World Testing: Putting Cold Steel Butterfly Swords to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Cold Steel Butterfly Swords was my backyard training area, a space I use for practicing various martial arts forms. I focused on basic stances, blocks, and cuts, gradually increasing the complexity as I became more comfortable with the swords. The blades felt surprisingly agile in my hands, and the cord-wrapped handles provided a secure grip, even when my palms were sweaty.

I practiced in both dry and slightly damp conditions to test the handle’s grip. The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords performed admirably; the cord wrap maintained a solid feel, offering little to no slippage. After the first session, I noticed a few minor scuff marks on the blades but nothing that concerned me.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Cold Steel Butterfly Swords continue to impress. The blades have held up well to light cutting practice on bamboo and cardboard, showing no signs of bending or chipping. The braided silk cords on the handle remain firmly in place.

Occasional cleaning with a light coat of oil keeps the blades free from rust, and the cord handles require minimal maintenance beyond wiping them down after use. Compared to some cheaper blades I’ve owned, the Cold Steel offering requires less frequent sharpening. These blades outperform in edge retention and overall durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Cold Steel Butterfly Swords

Specifications

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords boast several key specifications that contribute to their overall performance. The 15-inch blades are long enough to provide adequate reach. Also, the 2-5/8″ width offers good cutting power. The 1060 Carbon Steel construction provides a balance between durability and ease of sharpening.

The swords have an overall length of 20.25 inches and a handle length of 5.25 inches, offering a comfortable grip for most hand sizes. The blade thickness is 0.2 inches, providing a sturdy feel without being excessively heavy. The handles are constructed of hardwood and covered in braided cord. This is designed for a secure and comfortable grip.

Performance & Functionality

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords perform their intended job admirably. They are well-balanced, allowing for relatively quick and fluid movements. The pronounced D-shaped guards offer good protection for the hands and wrists.

The main strength of these swords lies in their value for the price. The weakness would be that they’re not razor-sharp out of the box and might require some initial sharpening depending on your intended use. The swords exceeded my expectations for a blade in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid, with the 1060 Carbon Steel providing a durable blade. The cord-wrapped handles offer a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended practice sessions. The weight of 27.8 oz. is substantial but not overly burdensome, allowing for good control.

There’s a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with butterfly swords. But, the balance and handle design make it relatively easy to pick up the basics.

Durability & Maintenance

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords are built to last, with the 1060 Carbon Steel providing good resistance to wear and tear. Regular cleaning and oiling of the blades is essential to prevent rust, especially in humid environments. The hardwood handles should also be periodically inspected for any signs of damage.

Minimal tools are needed for maintenance; a sharpening stone, oil, and a soft cloth are sufficient to keep the blades in good condition.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords come with a leather scabbard for convenient storage and transport. Customization options are somewhat limited, but it’s possible to replace the cord wrapping on the handles with different materials or colors. Some users might choose to modify the edge geometry for specific cutting applications.

I am unaware of any official accessories from Cold Steel, but the swords are compatible with universal cleaning and sharpening tools.

Pros and Cons of Cold Steel Butterfly Swords

Who Should Buy Cold Steel Butterfly Swords?

The Cold Steel Butterfly Swords are perfect for martial arts practitioners, historical weapon enthusiasts, and collectors. People who want a functional and reasonably priced set of butterfly swords will benefit most. They’re also a good starting point for those interested in learning the basics of butterfly sword techniques.

Those seeking competition-grade blades or highly customized options might want to skip this product. Individuals who are not interested in edged weapons or martial arts will likely have no use for these swords.

A must-have accessory is a good sharpening stone to maintain the blades’ edge, and potentially a higher-quality leather scabbard for long-term storage.

Conclusion on Cold Steel Butterfly Swords

Overall, the Cold Steel Butterfly Swords offer excellent value for the price. They combine a durable construction with a comfortable design, making them suitable for both practice and display. The 1060 Carbon Steel blades provide good edge retention, and the cord-wrapped handles offer a secure grip.

The price of $273.49 is justified by the quality of materials and construction. I would personally recommend the Cold Steel Butterfly Swords to anyone interested in exploring this fascinating weapon. If you’re looking for a well-made and reasonably priced set of butterfly swords, the Cold Steel offering is an excellent choice.