by Adrian Ko

Perhaps there is no other symbol in human history that inspires valor, honor, truth, strength, fidelity and courage in so many cultures across so many periods of time than the sword. More than a weapon, the sword represents art, science, technology, history, values, culture, a system of honor and more. It is one of Man's finest creations. In refining the sword, we refine ourselves and forge our dreams anew.

And thus, welcome to SWORD FORUM Magazine Online!

I wish to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who made SFMO possible, from the master smiths to the readers while SFMO was nothing more than a discussion forum on a quiet part of the Internet where sword-lovers met and shared knowledge with one another. We've done our best to maintain a warm and friendly atmosphere, while conducting ourselves with a humble attitude and showing everyone respect. Hopefully the family-like atmosphere and professional quality we've aspired to will be reflected on the next following pages.

Above all, it has been fun. It's a lot of hard work behind the scenes, but it's worth it. Our goal is to help educate sword-lovers worldwide, and to save people from making many of the common mistakes we've made when shopping on the Internet websites with no formal understanding of what makes a sword of quality versus an utter ripoff.

Through this medium, I've been inspired myself to attend a course in Japanese Sword Forging, arranged by Kim Taylor via the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada. I've been honored to meet - both online and in person - various smiths that I highly respect. And through our Discussion Forum, I hope that our readers - both smiths, practitioners and beginners - can meet one another as well. Perhaps you will be inspired to become a connoiseur or collector, or pursue the study of historical swordsmanship, or even become the next master bladesmith. Time will tell, and we hope to be with you every step of the way.

Legal Disclaimer

The reading of any or all parts of SFMO (including access hereof and use of any information herein) is a consent to the arbitration of any matter relating to this Magazine or its Staff and contributing writers, including any and all conflicts between the aforementioned and third parties, by a panel chosen from the editorial board of Sword Forum Magazine pursuant to the rules of arbitration as adopted by a quorum of said Magazine and website as appropriate to the conflict so arbitrated. It is anticipated that most arbitration will be by submission and that no record will be allowed. The cost of arbitration will be borne by the Complainant. This arbitration clause comes under the federal arbitration statute.

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