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Hello Everyone! After 1.5 years in my possession, the kodachi I had acquired is now being sent for shinsa! Wish me luck as we anxiously wait! In other news, to celebrate this occasion, I took new photos of the blade. Feel free to send your thoughts! All the best, Nich

That vid was hard to watch, for me at least, that guys voice was like nails on a chalkboard. Also, that snake blade looked as if it needed some attention, the oxidation looked active.

Cheers Michael. Thanks for sharing. I also have a habit of handling my iron tsuba daily. My routine, I will select one tsuba from my collection and carry it with me to work or wherever I go for (usually) at least a few days. Rubbing it while driving, while at work, while watching tv, etc. Many many years ago, a sword polisher I became aquatinted with while living in Japan suggested that the natural oils help stabalize the patina of iron tsuba, and I honestly love the tactile feel. It feels like therapy sometimes. If I have a piece with some active rust, I usually apply a small amount of choji oil with a q-tip, then rub it in a bit and use a cotton cloth to rub the area. I've never used bone or ivory, but occasionally a fingernail. I try to cycle through my pieces to give each one attention fairly, but I have to admit I have my favorites. Damon

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More photos!

Just stumbled across this video by Cross Cultures from the NHK, published on the 12th January: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/shows/2084073/ "The fact that foreign collectors cherish Japanese swords helps to unearth ancient works taken overseas after 1945. It also serves as a force for preserving traditional techniques facing extinction." Nice little time capsule of today's Foreign Japanese Sword Enthusiast.