3.4/5 THIS IS NOT A FAITHFUL REPRODUCTION OF THE LATEST SAMURAI FILM. The stringing on the handle is different and visible to the naked eye.
(Translated with Google Translate, sorry for any errors)
Disappointed that the handle braiding (Tsuka-ito) is not the same or similar to that in the film. The Last Samurai has diamonds - uncovered areas - along the entire length of the handle, and the one purchased has the central part without them, entirely covered in braiding.
While it's true that the mango/tsuka you're about to receive is the same as the photos on the Repliquemangacine website, I'm sorry I didn't compare it to the original scenes.
While it features film letters engraved on the blade, the guard (Tsuba) - but not the handle - and overall appearance are also similar.
Inspired by or with elements of The Last Samurai... yes. Replica... no.
The katana is the Fudoshin k75, made in China. Other Fudoshin models are identical or very similar, but without letters.
Mine came with a few "minor" imperfections on the blade (a small hole in the blade and a few other marks).
Positive:
Even with the aforementioned drawbacks, the katana is beautiful and I find it good/acceptable value for money.
According to the description, it is functional for cutting training (Tameshigiri) and is made from 1045 steel (the "minimum acceptable" for a katana).
It also comes with a cleaning kit, stand and storage box.