ISO a wakizashi or katana

[Kyzen223]

So I was wondering if anyone has or can get me a waki or katana for 500-1000,it does not have to be signed just something to start my collection.

[Grey Doffin]

What I said last week when another new collector asked the same question:

I think you're setting yourself up for disappointment. Under $1K for a Nihonto will get you something that is either low to mediocre quality or a blade with serious problems. When the time comes to sell and move up, you'll have trouble recouping the investment. Double the investment and take the time while you're raising it to study. You'll know more, which will allow you to buy something worthy and pleasing to own.

Grey

[Ken-Hawaii]

Welcome aboard, Joshua.  Grey is exactly right. We've all been in your position, craving our first blade. Most of us grabbed the first thing we could find, & a few months later, wondered what the hell we were thinking!

 

Grab some reference books from Amazon, instead, & spend some time learning before you buy. You'll appreciate that advice, later on.

[Nihonto Chicken]

I suppose it bears repeating one more time, "The first thousand dollars you spend on nihonto should be on books."  But, yeah, as a neophyte I didn't take the advice and bought a few losers before I wised up and no longer the king of battered and butchered bungo.  

[Dave R]

 

 It depends on where you are going to take your collecting, for fun or for investment. I collect for fun, and bought my first Nihonto for peanuts (£4. 10s) well battered, but a much enjoyed piece. I would avoid Ebay nowadays as it is the haunt of deceivers as well as honest sellers. There are swords for sale here, and quite a few pro dealers are on the internet, but basic research is necessary, and for that I recommend the internet. Books are lovely, but expensive the 'net is free. Here on NMB is a good start, but there are many other sites to peruse. 

Good hunting!

[Bruce Pennington]

You haven't stated you area of sword interest, but you can get some decent swords from WWII in that price range.

[Mark]

i posted a sword for $995 on this thread 

sorry did not see yours until today