Misterbovigoren

Thank you for the advice! The goal is not however to raise the value, the owner just wants it to look better. He knew how much I care for steel and asked if I'd be willing to give it some work, I agreed to his request just for the chance to get to work with and hold the sword, because I love sharp things and just recently started collecting katanas, the mother of all sharp things ???? I am very honored to be in the presence of this beautiful sword. Thank you again for taking time to answer my questions!!

Perhaps that explains why it was wrapped in the first place, perhaps the scabbard was lost or damaged and a wood replacement was made then wrapped in rattan?

Thank you for the feedback, I will most certainly take heed to your caution! Although, the scabbard appears to be made of solid wood under the rattan??

As far as restoration, I really just want to try and remove the gold spray paint, and then put a new ito on it (should be easy), and possibly repaint or recoat the black metal fittings on the sword and saya. If any of these things are possible, I would love to know what to use and any other things I could do to help return it to it's original beauty. All of the fittings are easily removable on both the sword and saya, so recoating them shpuld be very simple, I just need to know what to use. I work with my hands and carry a careful temperament, and I have dedicated my life to edged weapons and metal tools, and learning how to build and care for them, but I am still early in the Katana chapter of my life. I have a deep respect for Japanese traditions, art, and ideals, and wish to learn as much as I can. Thank you again for all who offer advice or knowledge or wisdom. I found a helpful link on removing paint from rattan wicker furniture, perhaps It could be of use? https://www.hunker.com/12318741/how-to-remove-paint-from-wicker

The only reason I entertain the notion of restoring it is because the original owner does not wish to sell the piece but would rather see it looking closer to it's original condition, and that is the whole reason it is in my possession in the first place. I simply wish to be able to honestly say I tried. Thank you all for you time and priceless knowledge!!

Thank you so much for the info! I really appreciate the time you have both taken to help me

Forgive me, my name is Bo Vigoren. Feel free to address me however is convenient. Thank you very much for your advice! So removing the gold aftermarket spray paint is out of the question?

I will take any new pics I can to help, I was given this sword to try and restore it to its original beauty. The owner got it from his father, who unfortunately spray painted the straw(?) wrapped saya, and tsuka gold. I just wish to learn anything I can about the sword to inform my friend about it and any tips on getting rid of the spray paint and small rust spots on the blade would be most appreciated. Here is the link for pictures I already have Gunto Katana https://imgur.com/gallery/8OH7NHk. Thank you for your time.