The most frequent questions we are asked have to do with the functional level of our swords.

Swords from Collectible Swords USA come from several suppliers. One of those is from our Sword From Toledo™ supplier, the largest #1 source for "Fully Functional" swords. Although we do offer some strictly "display" models, most of the swords we offer are "Fully Functional”. Whether they are replicas of historical swords from the days of yore, or our interpretations of "fantasy" swords. If a sword is fully functional, we say so in the description.

What does "Fully Functional" mean?  Back to top

A "Rated Fully Functional" rating means that the hilt (handle) and blade are each individually crafted to fully functional specifications and the combination of the two are constructed of materials and hand forged by artisan sword smiths in Toledo, Spain to a strength and performance level equivalent to, or exceeding, the original sword it replicates. Except for not being honed (sharpened) it is as "battle ready" and functional as the original. Of course, they are capable of being honed, but a professional should do this.
Part of what makes a sword a sword is tempered steel. All of our weapons "Rated Fully Functional" use Toledo high carbon tempered stainless steel blades.

What is the functional level of a sword that is NOT described as "Fully Functional”?  Back to top

If a sword does not state "Fully Functional" , it is deemed a "display" piece. That is, it replicates the original in looks but not in overall strength and functionality.

But rest assure, even though our display swords are less expensive than their "Fully Functional" counterparts, they are NOT "cheap" in quality. They are still hand crafted by the same artisan sword smiths in the sword making capital of the world, Toledo, Spain, who create our "Fully Functional" swords.
Our display swords, like our fully functional swords, are NOT toys or cheap machine made pieces that fall apart. They can be dangerous if not handled properly.
Collectible Swords USA also carries "display" swords from additional suppliers that are of a lesser value and meant strictly for the display board or stand. These are not meant for reenactments or faux battles. However they too are just as dangerous and must be treated with respect, safety and do diligence.

Yes, but are the Swords from Toledo™ "Display" pieces and
The non-Swords from Toledo™ products you sell functional?  Back to top

"Fully Functional" is a true collector's issue, showing that the sword has been hand forged and crafted by skilled sword smiths to the standards of the original it replicates.
Now that doesn't mean that in layman's thinking our "display" swords are not functional. They are NOT toys, and function very nicely in that they can cause severe injury when not handled properly. But we wouldn't go into battle with any "display" sword if our opponents possess battle ready Toledo blades. It would be like entering a race with a bike cycle when the competition is running motorcycles. The bike cycle will function, but we don't think it will win the race.

Will my "Fully Functional" Sword hold up in battle ,split logs in half ,chop down trees and cut a cement pillar in two?  Back to top

What you see in the movies and on TV is NOT the reality of swords. Most novices are in for a little rude awakening, as to the "reality" of swords versus the "perception" propagated in the movies. Swords do not cut through stone, trees or bang against other swords without sustaining damage of some kind. The Laws of Physics apply to swords just like everything else in the universe. In "olden" days swords were forged to cut into flesh and bone. After each battle the knight would take his sword to the sword smith to remove the dents and nicks it received. After a few battles, the sword was melted down and re-forged. In essence, swords were considered disposable. "Ceremonial" swords, i.e. Fancy swords, were worn for show and though capable of battle, their use was avoided. It was not uncommon for knights wearing ceremonial swords who were challenged to "halt" the challenge till each knight went and got their battling sword or foil. Simple physics are; if two objects of equal strength strike each other, each will cause damage to the other. If you strike hard objects with a sword, it WILL result in damage. Sometimes it will only be small micro fractures that you don't see at first, but those fractures will grow each time hard objects are struck. In the collector world "battle ready" refers to the sword being forged with components and as a whole, as possessing the strength of the original sword it was replicated after. Toledo swords, Paul Chen Hanwei, Thaitsuki, and other forges we carry have been renowned throughout history as producing the best and strongest swords. It does NOT mean they can't eventually break if they are continually abused without being repaired by a sword smith, nor that it is sharpened to battle conditions although all our "Fully Functional" Samurai swords are sharp. They are however, beveled so they can BE sharpened by a professional. If you intend to practice with log dummies and real people with "real" swords, we suggest you purchase "fully functional" swords, for their strength - otherwise your sword won't withstand the strength of another "battle ready" sword at all - and be prepared to dispose of the sword after a few of your "practice" sessions. How many practice sessions will the sword survive depends on the abuse it takes per session. Heavier swords will of course outlast a lighter sword. Give us a 4.4 lb. James I battle ready sword against an opponent with a battle ready fencing foil any day!

We hope this candor dispels some of the myths most people have about swords. Swords are NOT toys or playthings as they can cause serious injuries, even when not sharpened. If you still intend to do "practice" sessions, be VERY careful. Wear protective goggles, maybe even some armor. If you intend to do battle with "real" people, we suggest a good lawyer and plenty of insurance. As to suggesting a sword, it depends on what your opponents are brandishing. Don't sport a foil against a heavy battle sword. Also keep in mind your budget, as your sword will become disposable.

These are the true realities of swords. If anyone tells you different they are either uneducated to the facts , or just trying to make a sale. Also don't get us wrong. Fencing and sword fighting are honorable activities when PROPERLY engaged in. We sell many fencing foils that are used in the sport and fencers are well aware of the above facts.

Who does Collectible Swords USA sell to?  Back to top

Collectible Swords USA sells to the general public 18 years of age and older, Professionals, Museums, Colleges and Theater Companies. We also sell wholesale to other dealers of swords, Retail Outlets and Martial Arts Schools.

Where are Swords from Toledo™ created?  Back to top

Swords from Toledo™ are REAL hand-forged swords, crafted by real sword making artisans in the sword making capital of the world, Toledo, Spain. They are NOT machine made, or made in some far east country by people not trained in the art of sword smithing and who do not have ability to create high carbon tempered Toledo steel.

Do you make custom swords?  Back to top

Yes and No.
First, we will not make copies of copyrighted materials.
Second, to custom make a sword cost a minimum of $400 - $1500 and UP, depending on things like mold costs, type of materials etc.
Presently we use Swords From Toledo for custom swords, however they are increasing their production levels to meet their current and future demands, so they are unable to spare the time to create custom swords in quantities of less than 100.

Why are Collectible Swords USA prices so low compared to other "Fully functional" swords offered on the internet?  Back to top

There are many factors that determine the price of any product, whether it be armory or some other commodity. Some of those factors are:

• Middlemen: Our supplier has no middlemen that add to the end cost. We bring Swords from Toledo™ products direct from the factory to you. We do the same with our other suppliers.
• Volume: We sell more "fully functional" swords than anyone else and therefore need to add less to each piece to cover our fixed overhead costs.
  
• Advertising: We don't spend 100's of thousands of dollars advertising our Swords in newspapers, magazines and on TV, which only adds to the price. Our swords and customer service sell themselves.
  
• Sales Force: We don't have a sales force with big salaries that aren't earned. Instead Collectible Swords USA works the site and we get our money the old fashion way, we EARN IT.

Many don't think our prices are that low! They don't understand the quality that they are getting for a hand made sword and therefore never get the chance to own one!

Will Collectible Swords USA offer more styles?  Back to top

Yes, our Primary suppliers present plans are to extend the line to over 10 different items each year. And of course we have several suppliers we work with.

How do I request a Price Match?  Back to top

You can request a Price Match within 10 days after your purchase. To request a Price Match you need to "login" to the store. After you have logged in you can "select your Order History" located on the "Authentication" menu. Once you see your order history, "select the order" that contains the item you want to price match. "Select the Price Match button" located at the top of the order. Follow the form and click the "Submit" button. We will contact you after we have confirmed your request and the information you submitted. If you find a lower price before you have made your purchase from us just call us or email us and we will match the price if we can. We reserve the right to refuse any price match request. We do not price match sale items, brick and morter stores or auction sites.

I see the word "MAP" next to the price on some products, What does it mean?  Back to top

Why was my Credit Card Denied?  Back to top

Pay Pal, our credit card processor checks many variables when you pay with a credit card. However the Credit Card information is sent to the issuing Bank and ultimately the decision to approve or deny the transaction happens at the Bank.

Our most common errors on Credit Card transactions are due to:

• 1- The wrong billing address is used, The billing address must be the address where you receive your Credit Card Statement from the issuing bank!
• 2- The wrong CVV code is used. On Master Cards and Visa the CVV code is typically the last (3) numbers printed on the back of the card just above your signature on the right side. On American Express it is the last 4 printed digits (not Embossed) on the right side Front of the card above or below the last set of card numbers.
• 3- You have a block on your card from your bank that does allow purchases over the internet. Some banks have this block set automatically and you need to contact them to have it removed.
• 4- You are an international customer and your bank does not allow international purchases to be made on your card. Contact your bank and ask them to lift the restriction.

(If you still have a problem using your Credit Card you can always pay with a Money Order, Cashier Check or Bank Transfer-a $12.00 USD fee applies on international Bank Transfers under $200.00 USD.) If you choose the last options for payment, call or email us for our routing information and your new order total if applicable. Your order will ship only after the funds have cleared our US bank!
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