Actually it can. In comparison to other swords, katanas, especially katanas made traditionally with folded steel, are fairly fragile. If used correctly they will last, but used incorrectly (such as by a drunken idiot trying to chop down a tree) they can definitely shatter. Katanas are meant to be used to make precise cuts to vital organs, not crudely hacked like a machete.

I loved the Highlander movies/series, but that was one of the things they got wrong. Neither of the MacLeods would have survived a battle against someone with a broadsword, their katana would shatter from the force.

Katanas are actually fragile. They're meant for more precise strikes (like hitting and oragan). Not being swung (probably full force) into most likely into a thick tree by and by a drunken idiot.

You would sue? You would SUE your own family for a dumb drunken mistake? What a petty human being you are. I'd most definitely make the cousin replace it, even if it's a younger cousin that had to mow my lawn for years to cover expenses because he's still in college. But sue him? Really.

#57, I think depending on how OP's cousin responds to being asked to pay for it being repaired/replaced, suing for damages is probably a good idea. Since OP had it made traditionally, personally inscribed, and made by a professional blacksmith it's safe to assume the Katana cost upwards of at least $1,000; most likely more.

yeah that's what I meant, if he feels like he isn't responsible and won't pay then it's best to sue

Bamboo hollow. Trees not so much. Contain more tree. Factor in going against the grain of a solid trunk. Physics wins every time damn it

You must not know the difference between bamboo and a tree.

Why does this have downvotes? Forge-welding exists, people.

Katana are not made for hitting solid wood- bamboo can be sliced because it is hollow, but using even a good quality katana on bamboo would damage the blade over time, even if the sword was being used with the correct motions. The cousin is the one at fault here, not the blacksmith.

Katana's aren't meant for heavy blows (especially against a tree). They are meant more for along the lines of slashing and piercing organs.