Vermithrax16

Haha yes 1st world problem for sure! But still a problem. I do have a set amount of money set aside and I want to add 2 swords by year end, yet I continue to get pulled in so many directions (schools, eras, papers, etc) I lose focus on what I find is valuable to me. I think Jean's question is an important one and I do hope this thread does not die out. The long timers must be tired of this sort of discussion, but as a newer member I can say it's vital. The search function for debate type threads is not so great in function. It's easy to say "only buy NBTHK Tokubetsu Hozon Paper or higher for a real quality sword, and this era and school is best" but two problems: 1. Maybe I don't have 12-20k in disposable cash around to put into one sword 2. Maybe I don't even like that sword Hope there are active responses to this thread, I find it very helpful.

Great deals for sure, congrats to buyers and seller.

I actually struggle with this. I am still getting just what I want figured out, yet tempted to buy right now because I love these swords. Trying to slow down and focus, but then a new listing comes up

I sent you a Private Message.

Saw these, some amazing swords! The Yoshioka Ichimonji katana is on HOLD! Who did it?

I am an old man (41 years old) so I know Marathon Man! Was trying not to ruin it for everyone!

Dave, as a car guy I can't help but notice the Corvette in one of the bottom pictures! Love it as a car guy. I am a fan of Ishido school but not really well schooled as yet on mei and fine details (trying every day!). The kanbun era signatures don't match. The genealogy line I have for the later Sukenaga does not show a Sukekune branch. All that said, I am never ceased to be amazed when references fail to cover every honorific or signature possibility a smith may have had.

That's an obscure one Stephen! I have been using Singer Machine oil invented by our own Ray Singer but really liked Derek's study and may switch out.

Barry thanks for commenting, your experience is amazing. Thank you so much for all your help. Going to show my stupid side, but the nakago can have a thickness difference versus the blade? I only have 2 in hand and from pictures of other swords that would be hard to see, but mine are the same. Can someone show an example of this? This is why I love this art, learn new things everyday.

This is something I had questions about for a while, and very recently got some information on. I thought it very interesting at least to me as a new addition to nihonto appreciation so I figured why not open up a discussion. Nihonto have survived through time against many odds. What we have left today are little miracles really. At least I think of them that way. How does one determine the "health" of what remains? I understand exposed shingane and other faults that can hint or declare a swords age or number of polishes. Or thin skin. My question is without detailed measurements of the swords as they were in original state, how can one judge the current condition? To me the kasane measurement at both hamachi and kissaki has value, but again, without knowing where the sword started, who can say? The motohaba width is another that can add some understanding. I remember a Japanese sword polishing video where the modern era polisher said (don't quote me but best I can recall) "what we have left is what has not been removed over time. I try to accent and highlight what remains". That always stuck with me. Any input is welcomed, this is probably all old material to most here, but searches did not give me much to go on so I started this thread.

I owe Stephen a beer for another reason, but we can add another one

Judas/Adversary, As others have stated, Aoi will provide a laminated card with all the sword details and their price for the sword. BORING What is totally awesome is the whole sword tracing paper, it comes all scrolled up. I love it. Chris, thanks for the added photos. You really got wonderful swords. Congratulations.

You guys are sick awesome!

Don't out somebody on the internet Jay!!!

Agree with general thoughts here; fine, rare, documented fittings leave them alone! Period pieces of no real line or documentation but look great? Go for it.

I have sensitive enough equipment in my lab but most don't have a good scale and graduated beaker or cylinder around at home to do this.

No joke!

I have a ton of silver coins/bars and the ice test is way cool. Also just dropping it (not from chest height!) on a hard surface will give a sound unlike other metals. There are even apps now for this, unreal world. Could also be shibuichi (copper/silver alloy).

Will research, not my era of interest but would like to see what you are looking at.

My recent experience with Aoi Art was fantastic. From questions answered promptly (yes due to time differences there is a lag of course) to changing shipping dates (I was to be away right when the sword was to arrive) Aoi was perfect. 6 days from Japan to my door. No issues with customs, no surprises. Very happy with experience and they would be preference in future.

Least I can do is send you any I see in my searches. Good luck!

Love stories like this! I know many here on forum have more like it. Maybe we could have a section called "chases through time" or " your story". I am fine with debating pics and references, but I so do love a good story.

Newbie question, but how does one pay for items at the show? If I saw X sword or fitting I don't think I want to carry that kind of cash on me to close deal.

That is going to work!!! Thanks Stephen!

Now trying to figure out a themed set of fuchi/kashira and menuki to align with the tsuba for a sword fitting.