Wakizashi?

[Bridges]

I only collect Japanese militaria blades and I know this sounds weird, but I feel as if this sword is calling to me. It’s obviously a no frills mumei blade. Sort of reminds me of what a rebellion blade from the late 1800s may have looked like…anyways, my questions is, is this blade made from Tamahagane? The tsuba looks old and there are remenants of ray skin hanging from the wooden handle. I will attach pics

[PNSSHOGUN]

Few immediate issues:

• blade looks to have been amateur polished
• Fuchi and Tsuba are of abysmal quality - just what the hell is supposed to be portrayed on the Tsuba!
• New Samegawa & professional wrap will be a few hundred dollars alone

This is unfortunately very much in the 'junk' realms of Japanese swords, and while authentic, is the exact opposite of what you should be striving to own as a new collector. It may be difficult but before buying anything try spend a few months simply looking at Aoi Art listings and reading your newly acquired reference books to train your eye to quality. Depending on your location in the US it would be well advised to meet with other collectors and see some good swords in hand. 

[Bridges]

@PNSSHOGUN I’ll look into Aoi, I didn’t know that was a thing. I wish their were collectors near me but I’ve briefly researched and there are none in my state to link up with…that’s my issue with determining legitimacy of NCO shin guntos as I’ve never held one in hand. I have my resources but it’s nice to be able to go off what’s in hand. 

[PNSSHOGUN]

https://www.aoijapan.com/

 

https://www.aoijapan.com/japaneseswords/

 

They list new swords every day and worth going through their inventory.

[ChrisW]

4 hours ago, Bridges said:

@PNSSHOGUN I’ll look into Aoi, I didn’t know that was a thing. I wish their were collectors near me but I’ve briefly researched and there are none in my state to link up with…that’s my issue with determining legitimacy of NCO shin guntos as I’ve never held one in hand. I have my resources but it’s nice to be able to go off what’s in hand. 

 

What state are you located in? There might be some you weren't able to find.

[Bridges]

@ChrisWIm in South Carolina, the only group I’m aware of is the Asian Sword arts group but it is not strictly Japanese. 

[ChrisW]

It should be a good start! And there are a few individuals that collect in your region I believe. Can't remember off the top of my head though; but I believe one is a really high-end collector.

[jesse]

Noah, where in SC?

I live just outside of Charlotte NC and have family that reside in Myrtle Beach SC.

[Bridges]

@jessei actually live in Gaffney, I’m 40 minutes south of Charlotte. If you know of places close by let me know!

[DTM72]

On 12/16/2022 at 4:46 PM, ChrisW said:

It should be a good start! And there are a few individuals that collect in your region I believe. Can't remember off the top of my head though; but I believe one is a really high-end collector.

I'm in Charleston. I've got a good collection, but no tokubetsu or juyo stuff. 

 

@Bridges Noah, feel free to reach out anytime. I don't mind helping.

[Bridges]

4 hours ago, DTM72 said:

I'm in Charleston. I've got a good collection, but no tokubetsu or juyo stuff. 

 

@Bridges Noah, feel free to reach out anytime. I don't mind helping.

Thanks Dan, I’ve got a brother that is in college in Charleston. I’ll definitely hit you up one of these days!

[DTM72]

12 hours ago, Bridges said:

Thanks Dan, I’ve got a brother that is in college in Charleston. I’ll definitely hit you up one of these days!

My daughter goes to Charleston Southern University, and her boyfriend goes to College of Charleston. Both are good schools. You are more than welcome to stop by and chat. Bring pieces for show and tell. We can always learn more by seeing more. Every piece is unique.

 

Dan