the paul chen swords suck. (at least i can say that for the tai chi gim i bought. - total waste of 80 bucks.)

longquan makes 'combat steel' and 'spring steel' swords. - the combat steel are good for practice as they are heavier. - but none of the swords are properly balanced.

what kind of sword are you looking for? - and for what?

unfortunately, if you really want a "good" sword, you really do have to shell out big bucks. (min. $1,000)