New member, with 1st Nihonto

[Thomas Browne]

Hello, My name is Thomas and I am new to the Forum, I acquired a little wakazashi sword in trade from a friend who collects all things sharp and pointy, he traded me this wakazashi that he got from a collector who got it from SleezeBay and it looks old but I know nothing about Nihonto blades, the blade measures 17.42" from the top of the brass collar and a full 18.26" from the handguard, the tang is about 5.1625" (5 1/8) roughly, it's very black and has the hole in it for the wood pin, has a nice sheath and a little knife on the side of it. So I traded him my wwii german bayonet cause he's into that stuff. I am 1/4 Japanese and no nothing about my Grandmother's culture, kind of embarrassing. Lol! Just want to know if this is a good Wakazashi I will try to upload more pics but having some issues. Thankyou

Edited March 19, 2023 by Thomas Browne
Trying to add pictures

[Grey Doffin]

Welcome Thomas,

Not possible to tell much from the pictures but I see nothing discouraging. Here you will find a care and handling brochure you should read at least once:

https://nbthk-ab2.org/sword-characteristics/

Make sure the bamboo pin is in the hole in the handle and through the one in the sword's tang; it is very important. If it is missing whittle a new one from a chopstick.

Grey

[vajo]

From your pictures the blade has lost its shape. All edges are grinded round in that photo. 

[Stephen]

Don't get discouraged, maybe show the nakago.

Some blades were made flat sided but the kissaki definitely looks reshaped. 

All in all it's still a nice piece samurai history.

More precise photos would be appreciated.

[Guest Simon R]

Hi and welcome, Thomas,

 

It's a nice trade - especially considering your own family background!

 

The main thing which worries me is that the blade appears bent from your 'back-on' photo.

(See below.)

This can often be remedied by a professional polisher, but these are so expensive that it may not be worth your while to do so.

 

Anyhow, congratulations on your swap!

 

Simon