Newbie koshirae questions

[Jeff fromNYC]

Bought a wakizashi at auction which came with a basic shirasaya and now I would like some more ornate display fittings. I take it that a tsuka and saya need to be custom made - is this correct? Does this mean that I have to send the blade in so it can be measured and fitted? Can anyone recommend anyone that does this kind of work (I am in the U.S.)? Thanks!

[ZoomZ]

You have to decide if the blade is worth the money you will spend on fittings and having the

koshirae built .

 

First thing is finding the fittings you want to see on the sword that have a matching theme ,

then pack up the blade and fittings and send them to the builder .

 

Second thing is time and money , $2-2500 and up for someone to make and put together the koshirae and 6 -12 months to finish . 

 

 

[Jeff fromNYC]

Thanks for the reply. It is a nice Hozon Token blade and I don't mind the time and expense. Any suggestions on a reputable builder? 

[b.hennick]

Both Brian Tschernaga and John Tirado can do the work. Brian can also probably get you matching fittings with the motif you want. High quality work is not cheap. Both have never disappointed me.

[ROKUJURO]

Brian Tschernega  and John Tirado contacts can be found on   https://japanesesword.com/services

[Jeff fromNYC]

Much thanks!

 

[Ken-Hawaii]

Any photos, before you send your blade off, Jeff?

[Jeff fromNYC]

https://www.bonhams.com/auctions/26909/lot/89/?category=list&length=128&page=1

[DoTanuki yokai]

Hi, nice blade do you have pictures in more natural light.

From what i see on the auction site it looks like it would also get Tokubetsu Hozon but im no expert.

You dont have to take photos just for me wanting to see more of the blade 

[Jeff fromNYC]

Hi Chistian here is a couple of attempts...

[DoTanuki yokai]

Thanks for the photos Jeffrey,  its always nice to see a good bizen blade.

I would love to see more detail but i remember that it took me like 5000 pictures to learn how to photograph nihonto.

 

[Jeff fromNYC]

Yes its hard to photograph something reflective being a novice. Now I am trying my hand at making a tsuka...