CAS Hanwei Qi Jian 
From the master swordsmiths of the Hanwei forge comes the Qi
Jian, a re-creation of an ancient design that utilized one-piece forging. The
entire sword, from pommel to tip, has been forged from a single billet of steel.
This forging technique provides unparalleled strength and balance while
exhibiting a clear, bell-like tone when lightly struck.
The sword's name originates with the Qi nation, one of the many warring states
that eventually formed modern China. Legend has it that Feng-Xuan, one of the Qi
people and a central character in a well known folk tale, possessed such a one
piece sword and would use its ringing quality to accompany his singing. The
sword's grip is rayskin wrapped, a feature matched by the wrap on the throat of
the scabbard, making for a stunningly beautiful presentation.
Qi Jian Forging Process - Above you can see two
of the many steps required in creating this exceptional one-piece sword. The
first shows the basic sword shape after rough forging. While it's size
and weight are considerably more than the finished Qi Jian the forging already
exhibits the exceptional balance this design allows. From the rough forging the
blade and hilt are further shaped into the finished pattern. After an antique
patina is formed on the guard and pommel, the blade is polished and the Qi Jian
is fitted with the only piece not made from one steel billet - the genuine ray
skin handle wrap. Truly a unique piece.
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