Original Late War Army Tsuka Question

[Conway S]

I am looking for a Tsuka for a late war army sword ( Feb 1945) in "Type 3" mounts. I found a candidate on eBay and I am wondering if anyone can confirm whether the wrap looks original. I know it's a bit of a gamble on whether the Tsuka will actually fit properly with the nakago (returns accepted).

 

Based on the measurements the seller provided, the Tsuka is about 1 mm wider across the mune and 1 mm wider top to bottom than my sword's nakago. I just dropped a different sword off to have the Tsuka re-wrapped in Chicago so I know there are skilled individuals that can make custom Tsuka replacements. I want to keep it original if possible. Please let me know your thoughts. Thanks. 

 

Conway

 

https://www.ebay.com/itm/374652152941?hash=item573b022c6d:g:Ks0AAOSwo0RkRZh6

 

[John C]

1 hour ago, Conway S said:

Based on the measurements

It appears to be using a late war "quick" wrap (the name escapes me). The issue, though, is that tuska are made to fit the nakago in shape as well as length and width (hence the assembly numbers found on many of them). At that price, I think you would be taking an expensive gamble. 

Just my opinion.

John C. 

[Conway S]

Thanks for taking a look and offering your opinion, John.

 

I'll probably just continue to keep my eye out at shows. 

 

Conway

[Dave R]

When needed I buy either an already stripped core, or one so knackered that stripping it would be no loss to history anyway. A quick bath to dissolve the rice glue and then re-cut to fit. Ideally one with the metal mounts, like this one I got from fleabay a while back.