Eric,
I only have vague recollection of the conversation when I purchased it (way too long ago). The seller did give me a sheet of paper with some preliminary research regarding the hamon (including detailed drawings of it), province it was made, dimensions, blade shape, etc. Unfortunately, after many moves/reorganizations, I sadly cannot locate that sheet (could be anywhere in my house ).
Keith,
That is an interesting distinction between shortened (through cutting the tang), and moving the blade up. In all likelihood that is what the seller told me when I purchased it, and I must have simply misinterpreted what he said. I appreciate you pointing out the distinction!
Ian,
Now that you mention it, the blade does move with more finesse/balance than other katana I have held. Thank you for the observation.
Jed
*edit* In my first post I noted that I neglected to ask many questions regarding the sword, and the one that I have always regretted not asking is whether the tsuba is an antique/authentic, or a replica. Any thoughts? Thanks again for the comments!