Before I ordered this umbrella I had a few questions that I wanted answers to, but ultimately I couldn't find. The build quality is quite good! The handle seems to be a high impact plastic that doesn't feel cheap or fragile. The shaft of the umbrella appears to be carbon fiber and is light but strong. The balance is such that it feels like a practice sword, but perhaps a bit lighter. The umbrella can be drawn from the shoulder sheath without taking it off. I'm very pleased with my purchase.