Yari Question

[Bugyotsuji]

Steve, does that 'inch' include both sides, or in the case of a spear, an inch's worth whether of two, three or four sides?

 

Here in Japan there is a variety of prices, as you say, depending on who and where. I took a very short triangular blade to an Osafune smith who allegedly 'likes' polishing yari (many don't), and he wanted JPY 30,000 or around $300 US. I thought that was expensive, but a friend said no, that is cheap.

 

Since then I have discovered that in Japan it is who you go through that can influence the end price; it can seem so subjective. If you go through the front door with no introduction, they will quote the full rate.

 

Best to shop around, I guess, but in the States I was often told that you get what you pay for. With your spear however, it will never be a national treasure, so no need to call for the top polisher.

[SAS]

I think it is as you say, Piers.....it depends. The per inch guide is generally for swords anecdotally; to me, the extra side a yari has is offset by being short. More complex shapes probably cost more. A really cheap polish could be a disaster, as the stones necessary for a good polish are expensive.

[76_liberty]

Any recommendations on who to have polish it?

[SAS]

There are multiple options; i usually recommend Robert Benson in Hawaii....I sent you a PM.