Fixable?

[Stephen]

or can you tell from photos? wonder if it was changed to carry that way?

 

https://buyee.jp/item/yahoo/auction/x592503944#group=nogroup&photo=1

[Brian]

Fixable? No..not without a donor sword or considerable expense.
Looks cleanly done. Maybe damaged and so removed by the soldier? It's a pity, but the price will reflect that. Pity it is koshirae only.

[PNSSHOGUN]

Not fixable but the guard was notorious for breaking.

[Stephen]

i could not tell if it had a lead plug put in place, not sure as i dont own one to see whats needed. 

[TETSUGENDO]

Definately needs to be put on the transplant list pending suitable donor...cost could easily exceed practical expense.  Too bad, the chasing on this one looks particularly good.

 

Cheers,

   -S-

[Stephen]

I still think if d guard part was found....

 

https://goo.gl/images/Nn7kfd

[TETSUGENDO]

I AGREE, if you can get the part at a rational price go for it! 

 

-S-

[Shamsy]

There are a few examples of these swords with guards removed. Pretty sure it was F&G who first make reference to one where the guard was carefully removed, though I don't recall whether a reason is given. If it has been intentionally removed or lost during war time and you care about such things, it is best to leave 'as is' .

[Ontario_Archaeology]

another example, I think 
https://www.ebay.com/itm/4254-MODIFIED-SAMEKAWA-SABER-KOSHIRAE-HIGH-RANKING-OFFICER-MEIJI-PERIOD/223303591954?hash=item33fdee6812:g:6lgAAOSw8sBbyBJT

[Stephen]

Same sword