The finish on the TK16 Master is just incredible. It is glossy, smooth, and very hard. This makes it less prone to denting and almost impossible to chip. This also makes it harder to land certain tricks, so this "beginner" Kendama actually has a bit of a steeper learning curve. The wood is also very pleasing. The grain of the wood is beautiful and you wouldn't be able to tell if the sarado and the ken were made from different trees. The wood is harvested in China and also manufactured in China, unlike the only other JKA certified Kendama still in production.

That being said, the Kendama plays a bit differently. It seems a little heavy-handed and harder to control at first, but after a little getting used to is still a very good Kendama. Not quite Oozora quality, but is still well made and fun to use.

Good for a gift or for beginners looking to try out the wonderful art and sport of Kendama. (Posted on 5/15/09)