29Palms

Thank you gentlemen for the information. As long as you guys think the WD40 to get rid of the glue is safe I think I will leave the blade alone. I really kind of like the untouched look.

Hmmmm.........I see my signature is now Mike - South Florida but my author name remains 29 palms. Is it possible to change this to my signature name as well?

Thanks for the tips. I have appropriately changed my site name to Mike - South Florida. Regarding the cleaning of the blade, the only thing I have done is to use WD40 on the glue with my fingernail to try to remove the stuff. It is comming off very slowly. I have wiped the blade with WD40 as well recently. That is all I have done to it. Regarding blade polishing, I am now told it would be over $2K to polish it. Frankly I think that would cost more than the blade may be worth. Though I am impressed with its condition - probably in good shape because it spent so many years in its sheath in an Army footlocker in the hot attic in Atlanta, Ga where my parents lived from the 60's through 2003. I'd be very pleased with its appearance with just the glue removed. I know many people like that new look but the blade is in really excellent shape with almost a mirror finish in most places that it really speaks to me of its age / authenticity / etc. Just my thoughts - but I very much welcome more of yours. And thanks again. Mike

I'd like to thank all those who have commented on this post and / or sent me emails. The information you have given me allows me to make a decision regarding restoration, selling it as is or more likely, doing some cleaning of the blade and simply leaving it as it is for now. This is a great site with knowledgeable and helpful people.

What you see is the reflection of my red shirt with the writing GEORGIA BULLDOGS!

The problems I have posting photos is my fault. I do not know how to resize, etc. I don't want anyone to think I was complaining about posting. You guys have been of great help. Thank you, Mike

I am sorry for my delayed response to you all and thank you for your information. I have tried for over two hours to upload three pictures of the tang with no success. I am not very good with computers - sorry. The initial photos were taken and formatted by my brother. I would like to provide my email address to you. If there is anyone willing to post these extra three photos, I again, would be grateful. Michael.Manguno@AIG.COM

I have just registered on this site and would like to inquire as to your opinions of the sword I have pictured herein. This is one of two Japanese Swords my father purchased either on his way to or back from Taiwan in the late 1950's when the ship stopped in Japan. Regretably, the tang has no writing and has three holes. The condition of the sheath is poor. Although the blade appears stained it is actually old Elmer's Glue from inside the sheath when one of my brothers tried to glue the sheath back together when we were kids 30 or 40 years ago. Your comments and questions are gratefully welcomed. test.pdf