Simmons001

They are slightly unusual fittings to. I don't remember seeing them on a Gunto before Anyway $500 is a very low figure. I'd do a lot more research before parting with it. I'm sure there are experts on here who can provide a lot of info and a more realistic idea of what it's worth

I agree. I am far far far from an expert, but I have seen a number of Emura mei, and that one just looks wrong to my untrained eye I would agree with the experts here and say gimei.

I know the "Khaki" green the IJA used is a real hard match (I spent some time looking for the colour a while back). Even model shops couldn't help. I ended up getting some mixed up by an excellent and experienced spray painter. Even he said it was one weird green and hard to match, tho he got there no problem. So saying that... I would like the colour codes too

Oh absolutely. Yes, shin-gunto copy. Just was listed as kai-gunto, so that's how i referred to it. As you say an in hand inspection would show its a fake as long as you had some knowledge of the subject. Just noting new traps for us novice gunto-philes. As for the rest, all have said it far better than i could. Learn learn learn, read read read, ask ask ask. I just hope a bad experience hasn't burnt the fingers too badly.

Definite Fake Its a shame, and i agree with all the above comments The fakes are getting better and better nowadays. Below is a chinese blade in near perfect Kai Gunto mounts on ebay. So good, i was wondering if perhaps they had placed a fake blade in real Kai Gunto mounts. It shows just how good the fakes are getting. (Tskua wrap is the obvious giveaway, but the casting of the mounts is pretty damn good IMHO) Or perhaps its just my declining eyesight. :D http://cgi.ebay.com.au/Japanese-OFFICER ... 0381252210 Anyone want to confirm my random thoughts re old mounts? Chin up, chalk this up to experience and don't be afraid to ask questions. My interest in gunto was kicked off by speaking with people from this site and they helped me buy my first good blade. Cheers All Mark S