The 'exacting replica' from Albion has the point of balance 9cm from the tip... that's nearly 4".
Is that an argument that is isn't an exacting replica?
Yes. But only because it's Albion.
The other Albion sword is designed specifically to be manoeuverable
Yes, I believe that's the idea. Strange that.
Actually, this means the blade tends to be thinner, made of lighter steel (yes, it happens!) or altered somewhat from a more typical design.
As for the others, I was referring to a katana without a bo-hi (fuller). Obviously, taking a significant amount of weight out of the katana will make it much better.
Is there always a way to make them superior to western swords or is there a limit?
Actually, there is a limit. Put the Western sword in the hands of someone who knows what they're doing. Put the katana in the hands of someone who has never seen one before. I doubt they'll be able to win.
Katana only have a miniscule advantage over
comparable Western swords (comparing a katana's cutting power to a zweihander is just stupid, as is comparing its manoeuvrability to a rapier). Problem is, nobody is willing to admit this; they're either the same as Western swords, worse than Western swords, or capable of cutting a tank in two.
WHY AM I THE ONLY ONE WHO SEES THE TRUTH?!
Also, as a random note, it can sometimes be considered impolite to add something to a discussion about swords when the thread has moved on to zombies.
You just don't understand. Besides, it was impolite to derail the sword discussion to zombies. And the topic wasn't even about swords. It's a circle of impolition.
Hehehe... I'm glad someone picked up on the irony.