[Bob Haynes]

I thought I'd pitch in that you could have custom work done to your purchase if you find something that you're not quite satisfied with.

As I recall, there is someone around here who has had custom work done to their Hanwei Mercenary. Turns out that almost a decade ago, I purchased a Valiant Armory model of the same. And I'll tell you, this thing has glorified log for a handle.
She still handles very well and gracefully, I say, and with a professional custom work, I think it could become just what I bought it for in the first place.

You see, when I bought it, I was looking for an affordable but decent and functional long sword, something that was two-handed but one hand-able. Originally I was looking for a hand-and-a-half sword, but wasn't happy with anything in my price range.

You get what you pay for- time and research is included ten fold. I payed little of this, honestly. Not to say that I'm not all that remorseful, its been an acquired taste, and it has grown immensely on me.

Anyways, there my two cents for what its worth, I hope it helps and wish you well on your hunt.