Surprise

[IJASWORDS]

I decided to carefully remove (and replace) the WW2 canvas/leather combat cover from one of my Koshirae to examine the fittings. 

To my pleasant surprise the condition of the metal/paint/fittings was like it was made and assembled yesterday. MINT! 

Thought I would share what an original (Showa 1942) outfit would have looked like off the assembly line. 

[Bruce Pennington]

O.M.G. Neil! What a contrast between the mangy looking canvas cover, to the immaculate mint saya!!! What a sight! Thanks for sharing that.

[vajo]

Really cool Neil and a very good reference picture for the future. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[PNSSHOGUN]

The lacquer still looks wet, quite remarkable. What condition is the handle in? I suppose many of us have others in top condition but under leather covers which are virtually impossible to remove without destroying the leather.

[IJASWORDS]

Hi John, the handle is in above average condition. but not "MINT", as would be expected. 

[Jon MB]

And it can go the other way, where oils from the leather, or more likely trapped humidity, encourage corrosion.

[IJASWORDS]

I have found that under the leather combat covers, rust and corrosion is usually present. This could be from the residual leather tanning chemicals, as well as leathers ability to hold moisture for a long time when wet. I also think at least some leather covers were originally fabricated wet, and this allowed them to "shrink" giving a tight fit on the saya ready for use. The rarer canvas cover "breathes", dries quickly, and the very thick cotton used is probably inert.    

[tokashikibob]

Now that is a looker!

[IJASWORDS]

Thanks, actually I was more impressed with the fittings. They look as new, the detail in the casting is beautiful, and the gold (gilt) highlights are present. Almost a reference piece in years to come to study what they really looked like.