Independent

In 2001, Kudo received official authorization to be a swordsmith. Two years later, Master Fujiyasu asked him to make a single long sword, and Kudo tried one. Kudo swordsmith himself wanted to make an old Bizen piece, but in the end, he was too particular about the blade pattern (hamon) and made it too neatly, and he had to remake it again. Finally he was able to complete it to be recognized by his master and got his permission to become independent. He also exhibited that sword and received the Awards.