Oil-quenched vs Water-quenched - what to look for

[Kolekt-To]

What are some tell-tale signs that a Gunto has been oil-quenched versus one that has been water-quenched? How can we be confident of one versus the other when considering a blade? Information, thoughts, and photos are appreciated!

[francois2605]

Found older threads with some pictures showing what to look at: 

 

 

[vajo]

gendai-to_showa-to.jpg (320×233) (schmucker-info.net)

 

Here you see the main difference.

 

left = gendai

right = showa-to

[Kolekt-To]

Thank you Chris and Francois! After reviewing the posts and photos, I believe I can better discern Oil-quenched blades from Water-quenched. In one of the posts, the question was asked about Acid-etched hamons. So, I am interested in being able to spot those, as well as artificial polished-on hamons. What are some thoughts on these types of hamons, and how can we differentiate them from water-quenched and oil-quenched? Are there 4 different types of Gunto hamons: Water-quenched, Oil-quenched, Acid-etched, and Polished?

[m4l700]

Reposting this picture. Don't remember who made it here on nmb, all credit to that person.

 

[Brian]

That was Chris I believe. Still need to add it to the FAQ

[Kiipu]

  On 9/26/2021 at 3:48 PM, m4l700 said:

Reposting this picture. Don't remember who made it here on NMB, all credit to that person.

Expand  

 

Chris, AKA @vajo, created and posted that image back in April of this year.  Thanks Chris!

Showato or Gendaito? Help with nie nioi

[Bruce Pennington]

So, here's an example posted on Wehrmacht-Awards that, to me, seems to show the shadowing.  Am I right on this one being oil quenched?

[Brian]

I would say so personally..yes.

[ChrisW]

This is a very valuable thread for WWII collectors!