The Cold Steel Italian Long Sword is one of the long and mega size blade that you want to try once in a lifetime, because it is so different from most ordinary swords you might've handled. The blade comes razor sharp, with everything packed together in a nice and complete package. You don't really need any maintenance for the blade too, only clean and oil is needed, The blade don't get loosen up or anything after moderate use, which I expect it can be also okay for some abuse... maybe I will try that in the future and let you know!