Based on a positive assessment of Bogushop by a Canada-based sensei, I visited their website, perused the product line and decided to purchase and try the 1.2 bu kote model as a backup to my several sets of Japanese-made hand stitched kote.

One thing I appreciate is that Bogushop, unlike some other vendors, is fully-open about their products, down to the country of origin or each component. In the case of this model, 100% Japanese components combined with final assembly at the Bogushop factory result in a product that is aesthetically indistinguishable from Japanese-made kote. Functionally, whereas these are assembled and fitted on an order by order basis (like a custom-made set), I found the fit and feel to be superb, requiring practically no break-in.

At the current price, I haven’t found a better value anywhere.

Very good Kote, nearly no breaking in needed. Would and will buy again!

Only flaw is the delivery to Germany via EMS and GDSK. GDSK makes the delivery and customs service quite expensive.