Kai Gunto Ashi

[IJASWORDS]

Probably trivial to most, but I have noticed slight differences in the boars eye (heart shape) on some KAI GUNTO Koshirae. Some are solid (filled in), some are open. Examples are in the attached photos.

Can any one help with information on the differences. OK, I may be just chasing butterflies, but often small differences make the study more interesting. Neil.  

[obiwanknabbe]

My guess would be that its an example of upgraded features.. As we know, officers had sword purchase budgets and this is likely an example of the next level up for those with a few extra yen, with bucket seats, AM/Fm/Cd radio, and chrome rims optional.

 

Kurt K

[EdWolf]

Maybe just another manufacturer or just a simplification to speed up the production.

Regards,

Ed

[Erwin]

Interesting, the closed heart surface has indeed a structure so it is intended as such and not a casting mistake. In order to form the opening a corepin on the outside slides of the tool need to fit into slots in the core of the tool. After release from the tool it needs polishing work to remove flesh and clear up split line edges. Indeed, most likely a design alternative, faster to make, less fragile in toolimg and maintenance.......sort of makes sence. Like the open heart better though.

Thanks for sharing, I had not seen it before but relative new to the matter so no surprise there.

 

Best regards

Erwin

[Bruce Pennington]

Neil,

 

You always amaze with the unusual, and beautiful, things you find! The only reference I've ever found that discussed cost/style variations is the Ohmura site. He shows one, which I've never seen except for his site, that he calls an expensive upgrade. So cost clearly may have been a reason for some variants.

[IJASWORDS]

Closed ashi.

[Kai-Gunto]

I think different manufactures and what the officer where willing to pay.

[PNSSHOGUN]

Here is another example of this unique Ashi type, though the eyelet is pierced as normal. The top of the Ashi is more 'built up' compared to most Kai Gunto.

 

[DTM72]

I have been trying to find a nice kaigunto with sharkskin saya, vs. the same' skin. Hard to find. The one above makes me  . That kaigunto would make a good match with my sharkskin kyugunto.