Darren S

Thank you Grey and Jamie. Kit already ordered. Darren

Thank you all. As before, the information was much more than expected. As I am trying to learn, I hope you will be patient with some more questions. I'm sure you get hundreds. First: Thank you Chris. According to the book I am presently reading, the term "arsenal stamp" I have been using may not be exactly accurate. My mark is an "acceptance" mark which means that the sword could've come from one of three arsenals. Does that sound correct? It also says that that would date the sword to post 1942. I will continue my research on the maker as I am learning that there is probably additional information out there. (I can see how folks "get into" this.) Second: Thanks Jason. I will continue to look for information re. those lacquer marks, although it's hard to imagine I would come up with anything more than what you folks already know. and Third: Thanks Grey. I forgot to mention that the handle is dirty also. But I'm guessing that I should leave that alone as well. Is there any substitute to using Uchiko powder? Where does one get this? I'm guessing Wal-Mart doesn't carry it. Can I just wipe it with the tissues and than lightly oil it? At least for now? I DO appreciate the help and the learning. Darren

Hi all, I'm still very new at this but let's see if I'm heading in the right direction: I have 5 characters grouped together on the tang with a 6th one by itself higher up, closer to the blade. I'm assuming the single one is an arsenal mark but am still working on it. Of the five characters, the bottom one matches the "made by" kangi - almost!, but I'm guessing that's what it means. I assume the rest of the characters has to do with the swordmaker's name? Am I close? There are no numbers anywhere that I can see. OK, two more questions: 1. on the reverse side of the tang, there appears to be nothing but some dirt. When I looked closer it looks like one, maybe two painted? type symbols. One, to me, looks like a serpent? Any ideas or is it my imagination. Question 2: I just received this sword a couple of days ago. I know it has been in a closet for 20+ years. After reading about "Care of Swords" from various sources, I would love to clean this sword but am half afraid to even touch it. What can I do to help get rid of some of the dirt and to protect it from rust? On my antique guns, I use a light oil. Is it ok to wipe the sword with that? Can I do anything preservative for the wooden scabbard? The folks from this forum helped me out a couple of days ago and I can't begin to express my appreciation for those of you willing (even excited!) about sharing their hard worked for knowledge with laymen like myself. You are admired and appreciated. My very sincere thank you. Darren

Thanks guys! Not the answer one wants to hear but now one I guessed at. I have no qualms now about selling it. I will attach printouts of this thread to the sword so any potential buyers will be aware. My cousin gave us a second sword as well which I have not seen for 20 years. However, I may be getting it today. You may be hearing from me again. Thanks again and take care. Darren

Hi, Attached are two more pictures that I have on file. I can take more but it would take me a day or so. Thanks again for looking and helping. Darren

Hi, After trying to match characters from several different books and websites, I am beginning to believe that my sword is a copy. A relative gave it to me 20 years ago. I know he served during WWII in the US Air Force. He retired as a colonel. In all my research, I have found very little relating any marks found on the blade (other than serial numbers which this sword does not have.) Also, I have found very few examples of swords with only one character mark on the tang. Those that do, do not match the character on my sword. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you. Darren