After learning a little bit of American history yesterday, today we’re gonna talk about yet another Sci Fi movie that changed the way we make films forever: The Matrix! Free your mind.

This movie came out in 1999, when we were all a little worried about Y2K… remember that? The fear that all computers would crap out on us at the turn of the century? Silly times… But anyway, this movie was unlike anything we’d ever seen on screen. Not only was the story revolutionary, but the methods used for filming it were replicated in pretty much every action film that followed. To this day, that bullet dodging sequence, and that 360 spin around a character are used in everything from action films, to comedies… We all know what it is, and it’s become an overused and predictable device to depict a suspenseful moment. Back in 1999 though, it had never-ever been done, and it left us all open-mouthed and drooling at the theater.

The story is complicated but eerily plausible. We follow Neo, a reclusive computer hacker as he comes to realize that the world as he knows it — is an illusion, and robots have taken over the planet and now use humans as their fuel… Whaaat?! Kinda hits home, doesn’t it… ‘cuz aren’t we all just a little worried about robots acquiring consciousness and taking over the world? It’s as ubiquitous as the fear of a zombie apocalypse, but we can talk about that another day.

So anyway, the robots have created this imaginary world, known as The Matrix, and have connected all the human brains to it, kind of like a neverending dream. As the humans dream, they are comatose in individual vessels of pink goo, where they are fed intravenously through tubes connected to their body. Creepy as hell.

The movie moves well, it keeps you engaged and wowing away for its duration. And even 14 years later, the special effects stand up to any movie made today. It’s truly a masterpiece, and if you haven’t seen it yet: first of all, What the hell is wrong with you? and second of all… go NOW.

Also, the sequels kinda aren’t as good as the first… but I would advise to watch them anyway. Follow it through to the end, my friend… even if it has one of the most frustrating, hair-pulling endings of any franchise in history, you should still see it… or maybe not… I don’t know, you choose. I can’t tell you what to do.

The weapons used in this movie are EPIC. From all the kung fu awesomeness, to the crazy guns I can’t describe ‘cuz I know nothing about assault weapons. However, Heavenly Swords can help you out with various blades I think would’ve fit right in with rest in this film. Especially in the second one, there’s some pretty badass katanas going on… so I’ve picked out some weapons I think Neo and Trinity would’ve loved. They would definitely come in handy when fighting Agent Smith.

Emperor Kang-Si Sword

This majestic sword is 31” overall, with a 440 stainless steel blade measuring 20”. Thick and substantial, it makes a daring display, and Neo would love it!

Reaper Curved Battle Blade

Measuring 19″ overall, this sword has a stainless steel, double-edged blade with a silver finish. Impressive and beautiful! It comes with a sheath.

Bangkok Battle Set

Oh my! Any warrior carrying these weapons on his back will look amazing. These twin blades come super sharp, and the nylon sheath helps you carry them on your back, for a unique and effective way to carry your weapons.

Extreme Curve Custom Handmade Katana w/ Red Pendant

This guy is handmade and amazing. It comes with a super sharp 1045 high carbon steel blade. It has a dramatic curve, and is completely functional and battle ready.

Tomahawks are part of our ancestor’s history, and are revered to this day, as beautiful weapons for display, and for sport. And the tradition is still alive and kicking today, as there are hundreds of events throughout the country every year that feature Tomahawk throwing competitions. These are often part of a historical reenactment, where people dress, speak and act as if they were back in colonial times.

What I found most interesting while researching this uniquely American weapon, is that some Tomahawks are both a pipe, and a fully functional axe. Apparently they were created by Europeans to give to Native Americans as a peace offering. They were symbolic of the choice both Europeans and Native Americans faced whenever they met: one end represented peace (the pipe), the other war (the axe). To fight, or to make peace… a difficult choice that didn’t always end in a smoke.

Whether you’re into Tomahawks for the competition of it, or you just want to own a piece of history, Heavenly Swords has a wide array of both peace pipes and sporting Tomahawks. They make beautiful displays, but can also be used as throwing axes. Here are a few of my favorites:

American Tomahawk Comanche

This is the quintessential sporting Tomahawk. 16” long overall. It is made of black Teflon coated stainless steel, with full tang construction. Axe head has a cutting edge on one side and a 2 1/2″ double edge dagger blade on the other. On top of all that, it’s made in the USA.

Black Tomahawk Throwing Battle Axe

Made of stainless steel in a Midnight Black finish, this throwing axe is perfect for someone looking to get into the sport. Beautiful and deadly, you can display it, or you can train with it.

Tactical Takedown Battle Tomahawk

This is no reenactment, this axe will take you down! Made of 1045 surgical steel with a black finish, it comes super sharp and ready for battle. The head is specially designed for optimal balance and aerodynamics, for perfect aim.

Fully Functional Tomahawk Peace Pipe

Honor your ancestors with this beautiful peace pipe. It is fully functional, so it’s perfect for reenactors, and the stainless steel head features a detailed engraving. Smoke some tobacco and make peace with your neighbors with this piece of historical memorabilia.

Tomahawk Peace Pipe – with Wood Handle

This another authentic looking peace pipe complete with faux fur and leather covering on the handle. The blade is made of 440 stainless steel, and the wooden handle is also a fully functional pipe.

But I digress. The cane can be a pretty awesome thing, if used appropriately. There’s a time and a place for everything, am I right? Let’s say you’re going to some super fancy affair, get a cane my friend. You’ll look amazing. Let’s say you hurt your ankle, why not use this opportunity to use a cane in style, not the ugly metal one your doctor gave you.

Bottom line, if you’re gonna use a cane for whatever reason, it might as well be a cane you can be proud of and show off to your friends. If it has a hidden sword in it, even better! It’s like carrying a secret weapon everywhere you go… who wouldn’t enjoy that?

Heavenly Swords has canes for every taste. Sword canes at that! Wear them confidently. Own the cane. Here are a few of my favorites:

Revolver Cane Sword .45

Whaaa?! This is a cane sword with the handle shaped like a revolver! How cool is that? It is 37” long and it is modeled after the .45 Army Special. The casing of the gun and handle is solid aluminum with a classic gun antique finish. The gun cylinder looks and feels authentic, and it spins on its axis like a real revolver!

Caribbean Gray Pirates Flame Acrylic Sword Cane

This sword cane looks simple and elegant from afar, but when you get up close, you can see the skull and flames detail, making it perfect for someone looking to wow a few people. It has a whopping 15” blade inside, made of stainless steel.

Cord Wrapped Wolf Engraved Hardwood Walking Stick

This 55” walking stick is perfect for an outdoorsy type. This can become your trusty walking stick when you go hiking or exploring through the woods. It has a clear gloss finish for durability, and the wolf engraving give it a beautiful detail.

Two Face Black Joker Cane Sword With Lighting Eyes

Looking to complete your Joker costume? This cane is perfect for you! The eyes light up red with LED lights. There’s a discrete switch on the handle. It is 37” overall, with a long 19” stainless steel blade inside. Perfect for cosplay, or just someone who really loves The Joker.

Sword Cane – Elegant Executive

If you’re looking for something more subdued you can take to the office, this is the cane for you. Perfect for someone who needs to use a cane on a regular basis, but doesn’t want to always carry a flashy, attention-grabbing piece. This cane features a 12” stainless steel blade, it is brown with a detailed nickel trim for a sophisticated look.

The kind of weapon that makes you look twice, then walk over to it and stare in amazement. The kind of weapon that makes people say, “Wow! Where did you get this?!” I’ll tell you where, Heavenly Swords.

We’re adding new inventory every day, and every day I add new items to my wish list. I will share this list with you now, so that you too can start weighing your options. If you’re gonna buy a sword, make sure it’s the ultimate, dream blade of your life. Or buy two… or three… If you’re gonna do something, go full tang!

Azan Scorpion Snow White Medieval Dagger

The blade measures 10 inches and is sharpened on one side. It is made from stainless steel with a satin finished blade and partial serrations. The middle of the blade features an intricate design of a scorpion catching a spider, which I especially like, since I’m a scorpio and I hate spiders… but that’s not the reason I like it. I like it because it is made of great quality, and its sophisticated design will suit pretty much anyone’s taste.

Deadly Dragon Claws

What. Is. This. I can’t even begin to explain to you the craziness that is this weapon. It is 15” overall, and comes with an additional throwing dagger tucked at its base. The intricate dragon design and the spiked knuckles add to the intimidation factor.

Gun Metal Dragon Handle Double Bladed Fantasy Dagger

We have a very limited number of these, so you better get going. This is a highly stylized piece for your collection. It is double bladed, and comes with a beautiful wooden stand, so you can display it in all its glory.

Sun Tzu’s Curved Ceremonial Dagger

If you’ve ever read The Art of War, you’ll know who Sun Tzu is. His writings on war strategy are still used (and often quoted) by people today. “Keep your friends close, and your enemies closer.” Yeah, he wrote that. This curved, steel dagger features an authentic, old world look and a thick curved blade. It comes with an ornate sheath that bares Sun Tzu’s depiction in gold.

Golden Dragon Claw Dagger

This gorgeous piece was artfully designed by Tom Anderson. It is 14” overall, and it features an acid etched stainless steel blade, to resemble a dragon’s talon. The handle is crazy, with an intricate dragon pommel and black lacquered handle, the guard is made to resemble a dragon’s claw.

This is just a taste of what we have in store for you here at Heavenly Swords. Every week brings new possibilities, so make sure you keep checking back with us… A lot of our items are in limited supply, so if you find the weapon of your dreams, you better act fast!

This past weekend there was a back to back marathon of all the Batman movies on ABC Family. I watched them all, in chronological order, cringing and cheering depending on the moment. Is it just me, or did the films get progressively terrible as the franchise continued? It seems that the entire series plummeted downhill after the second one, Batman Returns. Batman and Robin? Come on, people… You can’t have thought that was a good movie. And Uma! I love you, girl.. but what were you thinking?? Not to mention Mr. Freeze and his plastic ice lair…

All of that, put together with a seemingly drunken Batman (George Clooney, I abhor thee), a cartoony Robin and a phoned-in performance by Alicia Silverstone (Batgirl) made for one of the worst experiences I’ve had watching a movie. How is it possible that a stellar cast could collectively do a horrible job?

Now, you know me, I love me some camp. But there’s a distinct difference between the hilariously bad, and the badly bad. The kind of bad that is so bad because the cast and crew just apparently gave up. It’s like they were coasting on the success of the previous films. They didn’t even try.

Now, enter the saving grace of a beloved superhero, 2005’s Batman Begins. This is a much more realistic, much darker interpretation, and thank God for that. Christian Bale takes us on a journey that made billionaire playboy Bruce Wayne into a crime fighting, raspy-voiced lord of the night. I adore this movie. Cillian Murphy as the scarecrow… holy sh&*! Terrifyingly awesome. Liam Neeson? Yes. That guy hasn’t seen a bad acting day in his life. Sidenote: his portrayal of a pervy ghost in High Spirits (1988) is inspired. Such a funny movie, and Steve Guttenberg is in it. Now that is some good camp!

Now that we’ve acknowledged that the Batman franchise has had its ups and downs, we can get back to the amazingness that is the new incarnation. Since Batman Begins, there have been two new films, each incredible in both storyline and execution. The Dark Knight (2008) and the latest in the bunch The Dark Knight Rises (2012) were both great movies in their own right, but that’s a chat for another day…

Right now, I want to show you some of the awesome Batman gear Heavenly Swords has in stock for you. Let’s put away the bad, and focus on the greatness that is Batman today. Here are a few items to get your blood lust going:

Batman Dark Knight Mask

This is a perfect replica of the mask worn by Christian Bale. It has an adjustable Velcro strap so it can be worn on any size head. Made from resin, it is very durable. When you aren’t fighting crime, you can hang it on your wall with the included wall hanger. Just don’t do that if you’re trying to keep your identity hidden…

Dark Knight Rises Bokken

Now you can combine your love for Batman with your love for swords. This is a bokken, which is in itself a great weapon. It’s basically a wooden practice sword. This one would be perfect for cosplay, or just to practice your katana moves without lethally injuring anyone.

Batman Battle Axe Batax

Now this weapon is no joke. It has super sharp stainless steel blades, and is overall about 10” long. It’s the perfect throwing axe, but be careful!

These are just a few of the many Batman products we carry. We have arm guards, throwing stars, and double bladed folding knives, so check us out!!

Lord of the Rings is a film series based on J.R.R. Tolkien’s epic fantasy novels. The first in the series was released in 2001, and of course, it took the world by storm. Never before had an audience been transported so successfully into a vast world of fantasy. A world of elves and hobbits, where the culture of each character was so intricate and full-fledged, it was difficult to believe they weren’t real.

It’s this exacting attention to detail that made both the books and the movies so popular. It’s almost as if Tolkien was simply relating his former travels to us, describing, rather than creating these people. I fell deeply in love with all the characters, and was moved by both the good guys and the bad guys. Those Orcs were scary and really gross, it was hard to even look at them! Which is the mark of a well-made villain, if you ask me. While the good guys were pristine, innocent, full of kindness and generosity.

It’s easy to like a story that so clearly defines the boundaries between good and evil. It leaves you feeling like there’s justice in the world, like the good guys will always win, even if it seems impossible. It’s a comforting idea, albeit kind of unrealistic. I can see how audiences flock to it even today, decades after the book was first released.

The world Tolkien created seems so real, it’s hard to resist trying to recreate it at home. Well, now you don’t have to. Bring the fantasy to life with tons of LOTR gear! Heavenly Swords has your back, my friend!

Sword of the Witch King Lord of the Ring

Now this is impressive. This sword is an exact movie replica of the sword carried by the Witch-King, the leader of the nine Ringwraiths who were the chief servants of the Dark Lord, Sauron. It comes with its own certificate of authenticity and silk screened display plaque. It is a massive 54” long, and will leave anyone who visits your house feeling super jealous.

LOTR Orc Blade Fantasy Sword

Now you can own the weapon wielded by some of Middle Earth’s creepiest creatures. They are described as man-shaped, roughly man-sized, ugly and filthy, and are only able to destroy, not to create. Orcs are cannibalistic creatures that seem to feel no pain in battle. Not to mention they are some of the most memorable evil characters in all of literature. This sword is made of stainless steel with a wooden handle and display stand. It measures roughly 36”.

Glowing Sting Sword

Possibly the most impressive movie replica ever, this sword actually glows! It is fully licensed and authorized by New Line Cinema. It is cast from the same molds used for the original film’s prop. The handle’s sliding switch selects three different modes: “OFF,” “ON,” and “ORC.” The “ON” position will make Glowing Sting simulate the sounds of war when struck against other objects. “ORC” mode activates an audible hum and the signature blue glow that announces the proximity of orcs.

So let’s start a gift revolution. Let’s give presents to the people we love just because we want to. Just write something like, “Happy Thursday” on the card. I promise you, the gift-getter will be so happy at the surprise, they won’t even care it’s not a special day. Any day can be special, if you share it with someone you love.

And what’s more, let’s step away from traditional gifts. I swear, if I get one more scented candle, I’m going to throw it across the room. I don’t care who gave it to me. So what can you get someone that is original, unexpected, and unbelievably cool? Heavenly Swords has got your back on that one. Here you can find amazingly clever gifts for anyone who’s ever seen a movie, or played a video game. Pretty much anyone who’s ever been a kid would love this stuff… and correct me if I’m wrong, but didn’t we all start out that way?

These are just a few suggestions. We’re adding new products every day, so make sure you browse it up!

Cobra Dagger w/ Stand

This guy is pretty and menacing at the same time. Not to mention he’d look awesome on a bookshelf. Any guy or girl who’s into cool looking weapons would love this.

Apocalyptic Zombie Decapitator Sword

Do you love zombie movies? Are you certain it’s only a matter of time before the shizz goes down? Then be ready to kill some undead with this affordable, yet fully functional razor sharp sword. The heavy duty nylon sheath with shoulder strap is included.

Caribbean Gray Pirates Flame Acrylic Sword Cane

Does someone in your life use a cane? Get them this kickass piece of equipment, so they can strut their way down the sidewalk. The dagger style blade is made of stainless steel and doesn’t come sharp, but this cane is still one bad mamma-jamma.

Snow White Sword

The movie was really good. The sword is really pretty! Any girl who’s a fan of Kristen Stewart will want to own the sword that helped her destroy the evil witch (brilliantly played by Charlize Theron), and win her kingdom back. Who says girls don’t like weapons?

Dragon Armor with Samurai Sword Letter Opener

How cute is this miniature! It’s the perfect item to personalize your loved one’s desk at work. The Samurai sword is a letter opener and it’s not sharp, so it’s safe to keep at work. The Japanese armor is a beautifully detailed replica of the kind of armor a Samurai warrior would wear on his way to battle.

We have so many great products, I can’t even wrap my head around listing them all. We have armor, ninja gear, pirate stuff, survival stuff, movie replicas, anime replicas, a crazy selection of katanas and other japanese awesomeness, and we’re adding more stuff every day!

A martial arts fantasy musical… what?! Yes. It’s been done, and it is glorious. If you’re standing there perplexed, smooth out that frown, ‘cuz today we’re talking about The Last Dragon. Sho’nuff!

The Last Dragon is a freakin’ masterpiece. It has everything, a noble hero, a beautiful songstress in distress, a crazy hilarious villain, piranhas, big ‘80s hair, and an awesome musical number at the end where everyone is dressed in white tuxedos. You can’t make this stuff up.

This film was released in 1985, and hasn’t left my consciousness from the moment I saw it. It follows Leroy, a devoted martial artist, who worships Bruce Lee (who doesn’t?) and dreams of one day achieving the ultimate mastery of martial arts, otherwise known as “The Glow”.

He must defeat the Shogun of Harlem, a hilariously memorable character called Sho’nuff.

There’s all kinds of weirdness in this movie, but my favorite part is when he finally catches a bullet with his teeth in the climactic scene. You must watch this movie. NOW. Your life will never be the same.

After you watch it, and your hope for mankind is likely restored, you’ll probably want to train just like Leroy. In case Sho’nuff should show up at your local movie theater. Here’s some pretty amazing gear from Heavenly Swords to quench your thirst for ninja mastery. Leroy would be so proud:

Azan Royal Throwing Card Spades Set of 5

These are made of steel with factory sharp edges. They come in a nylon pouch so you can be ready whenever an opponent should challenge you.

Black Ninja Warrior Sword & Stars

This 39” swords is made of 440 stainless steel and comes with a pitch black blade, so you can go undetected in the night. The square guard can be removed and used as two throwing stars.

Black Throwing Star 4 pointed

This four pointed black throwing star is the perfect pocket weapon. It is made of 440 stainless steel and comes with a nylon pouch. Careful, it’s sharp!

Covert Double Trouble Ninja Sword Set

These swords are not only beautifully unique, but they will cut through almost anything. They come super sharp, and look great prominently displayed anywhere. Let Sho’nuff know who’s the true Master with these swords!

Dual Rainbow Blade Full Tang Ninja Swords

Talk about “the glow”. These swords bring ninja weapons to a whole new level. They are functional showpieces that come fully sharpened, so you can leave your friends speechless when you demonstrate their power. Use responsibly, of course.

Kuma Claw and throwing star

This claw has Sho’nuff written all over it. I imagine he would’ve loved showing up somewhere wearing it, and scaring the bejeesus out of anyone who got in his way. “Who’s the prettiest? Sho’nuff!”

Sidenote: There’s been a lot of talk on the interwebs about doing a remake of this film. Why?! Please, do not remake this movie. You can’t recreate the magical camp that is this classic. It is a journey to a mystical world… it’s ridiculous, and silly, and just plain perfect. You wouldn’t repaint a Van Gogh, would you?

It’s easy to throw all the Karate Kid movies into one category: cheesy nostalgia films with no real substance. I vehemently disagree. Karate Kid II specifically, is in my opinion one of the best films of the ‘80s. Isn’t it weird, how sequels can sometimes surpass the original in both cinematography and plot? Think about it. Back To The Future II? Way better than the first. Though the first one does hold a special place in my heart, the second is my absolute favorite of the series. But back to Karate Kid II. It is visually stunning. The scenes set in Okinawa especially have a certain simple beauty, not to mention the final battle in those ruins… I mean, come on… you have to admit it was really well done. And that hurricane sequence? Intense. Really good acting from the bad guy, by the way. Remember him? Boy, he was a looker…

But what..a..jerk..

With an awesome ‘80s soundtrack to match, this movie is the perfect representation of that ‘80s “go get ‘em” attitude. When movies were unrealistically up beat, and we loved it! You always knew the underdog would win, no matter how high the odds were stacked up against him. The skinny unlikely hero always steps up in the end, leaving you in tears of joy. (Yes, I always cry… it’s just so good!)

Relive all your favorite Karate Kid moments with these products from Heavenly Swords. Now you can train like Daniel-San and kick that blonde guy’s butt.

And yes, I know that’s from the first one. All you need now is one of those little drum things you slide between your palms… you know what I’m talking about.

Foam Padded Dragon Nunchaku Karate Practice

The biggest mistake you can make is training with real nunchucks. These are padded with foam, so you don’t have to suffer the bruises of learning with real metal and wood ones.

Stainless Steel All Metal Nunchaku

Once you know what you’re doing you can move on to these beauties. Any challenger will be both impressed and intimidated when they see you handle these gleaming nunchucks with ease. They’re made of stainless steel with an overall length of 29”.

Extreme Black Shinobi Throwing Star Set of 4

Ok, so Daniel-San doesn’t really use these, but anyone interested in Martial Arts weapons knows that ninja stars are a must-have! This is a set of four different styles, made of black anodized steel and come with a nylon pouch and belt loop.

Wooden Training Dummy

A valuable investment for someone who wants to truly be a ninja. It is made of 100% hardwood. It is not only an important training tool, but will look awesome in your man cave. Practice your moves with this iconic training tool.

The Karate Kid films have sustained various reincarnations. Think 1994’s The Next Karate Kid, with Hilary Swank (admittedly, not her best work), or the slightly better, yet totally manufactured 2010 remake with Will Smith’s son. I understand why movie studios want to recapture the magic we all love, but these movies are classics for a reason! We should start a campaign against remakes… it just makes me sad.

Or maybe your collection is already getting sizable. You started with a Samurai sword set, of course, but have now moved more into hand forged, battle ready pieces. Perhaps you’re into Medieval weapons and armor… Whatever your taste, learning how to properly care for your swords is paramount for anyone who owns one of these majestic weapons.

In this post I’m going to talk about the various ways in which to care for your sword. There are sharpeners, different oils you can use, and even cleaning kits, all so you can keep your sword in tip-top condition for decades to come.

Many swords become family heirlooms, and are passed down from father to son for generations. Keep your swords in pristine condition, so that in the future, your kids can display them as proudly as you do today. Here’s a rundown of the basics:

AccuSharp Knife Sharpener

This is a basic, easy to use sharpener. There’s no need for oils or stones. It is made of tungsten carbide and will never rust, even if you run it through the dishwasher. This USA made piece of equipment can not only be used on daggers, but on house knives, axes, hoes and even serrated edges.
Arkansas Sharpener Superstick

This sharpeners is also very easy to use, and will make any sharp edge super-mega sharp. It requires little care, just wipe it down when you’re done. It is ceramic, and can be used on anything from small pocket knives to big butcher knives.

Combo Stone Sharpener

This one includes aluminum oxide stone on one side, and Arkansas stone on the other. What I like about this one is that it comes with a sharpening guide, for those of us new to sword care. The stone is nestled in a cedar box for safe storage. Also made in the USA.

Deluxe Sword Cleaning Kit

This attractive kit comes with everything you need to keep your katanas looking awesome. It can be used for all your weapons, from Medieval daggers, to Samurai swords, to Machetes… if it has a metal blade, it can be made gorgeous by this kit. It includes a brass awl and hammer to easily dismantle your sword (for your katanas), a bottle of Choji Oil to prevent rusting (for all your blades), rice paper for oil application, a container for your oiled papers, along with some other stuff. It comes in a nice wooden box for safe storage.

These are just a few from our extensive selection of products to help you take good care of your swords. We have sharpeners and oils to maintain the swords of even the most discerning blade owners. Let Heavenly Swords help you keep these prized possessions looking like new forever.