The main problem is the "Side Sword".
Everyone runs around with these pirate-ish swords. They are basically 1handed katanas without the 1h nerf.
* 1 less speed than katana at 101. (3x heirloomed it is like a 2x heirloomed kata..)
* exactly the same length
* 3 less swing damage
* 8 more thrust damage
Paul/Urist. This is absurd.
It might be quite easy to manual-block for you and me but this sword has the option of using a shield.
SHIELD:
* Impregnable to projectiles from 180 something degree arc
* Can hold off 2+ Opponents + ranged at the same time.
* Can stop a couched lance
* Can soak up damage up to 600 hp (Correct me if I'm wrong)
* Simple, right-click block
When the shield breaks, you are still a fully capable force if you can duel..
THEN:
Side Sword
weight 1.3
requirement 8
spd rtng 101
weapon length 95
swing damage 32, cut
thrust damage 26 pierce
Katana:
weight 1.25
requirement 9
spd rtng 102
weapon length 95
swing damage 35, cut
thrust damage 18 pierce
1 of the above has wrong stats since they cost about the same. Seriously, you can hit and damage someone more with a wooden stick used with 2 hands than with a sword in 1 hand. Perhaps don't make the katana faster, since it seems to be game breaking for some players, but at least give it the damage of 2 hands on a piece of metal.
Just for reference, the old Elite Spammitar:
Elite Scimitar
weight 1.25
requirement 7
spd rtng 99
weapon length 100
swing damage 31, cut
thrust damage 0 pierce