"He's a great man and a truly honorable teacher. He might be 91 years old, but he can still knock me around like I'm a student."
Stacked on display racks, the rusted bladed implements of war look harmless enough today, but Lin is quick to point out that many, if not all of the ancient weapons were probably put to use by their original owners at one time or another.
"There's obviously no way to tell who used what and when, but you can tell by looking at the blades if they were used. I'd say that over half of the swords in the collection saw combat," said Lin.
"It's a pretty gruesome thought that many of the weapons were used. I don't really like to think about that much."
Over the years, Lin has procured weapons from many sources around the world.
He's purchased from private collectors in Taiwan, some rather dubious sources in China and collectors and museums in Europe. Lin coyly avoids talk of the exact amount of capital he's invested in his collection, but he modestly admits that it is "quite a bit of money."
"I don't think you can put a price on the collection. I didn't start collecting for financial gain. I did it because I had a passion for the historical development and use of ancient Chinese hand-held weapons," he said.
"People always tell me that because the collection is so unique that I should invest in expensive display cases and charge people to see it. But it's a hobby and not a business so I have no intention of doing either of these things."
Because he treats his collection as a pastime rather than a calling, Lin doesn't advertise or publicize his massive armory.
Since its establishment, however, his private museum hasn't gone unnoticed, and he gets dozens of calls every month from people interested in viewing his collection.
"I get people calling me and asking to see the weapons, but as it's not a museum with regular opening hours I have a policy of only allowing groups to view the displays," said Lin.
"I haven't got the time to sit here all day and I'm certainly too busy to show individual people around every day."
Those lucky enough to be given a tour of Lin's private arsenal are told in detail about the history of each weapon and he also gives dexterous displays of sword and spear play and lessons in the correct usage of all the weapons in his collection.
All of which can prove to be rather nerve-racking for visitors, as he might be highly trained, but the sight of him wielding a cavalry sword in the confines of his museum means that visitors do on occasion find themselves ducking and edging away from the master as he gives his up-close and in-depth narratives.
Those interested in viewing Lin's collection can make arrangements by calling (02) 2623 8417.
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