Tanto Translation

[Nicholas]

Hi,

I have this little tanto I’m having trouble with the bottom character. Is it Kanetsune or Kanenaka? It look to be in Mino style. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[Mark]

Looks like Kanetsune to me

 

[Mark S.]

Agree Kanetsune.  Mei and Higaki yasuri (file marks) most definitely point to Mino.

[Nicholas]

Thank you Mark.

1 hour ago, Mark S. said:

Agree Kanetsune.  Mei and Higaki yasuri (file marks) most definitely point to Mino.

Thank you Mark S. There are many generations of Kanetsune. Is there anyway to correlate the shape of the tanto and characteristics to a rough estimate time period? Muromachi or Shinto? I will add more pictures if necessary.

[Mark S.]

I’m on vacation right now, but just a quick look at my Sesko reference of smiths lists at least 2 pages of Kanetsune (Mino) smiths.  Might be a bit difficult, but posting some more pics may help some of our more experienced members narrow it down a bit.  I suggest full length pics of the bare blade (point up - no habaki) and any pics of hada and hamon activity.  

[Stephen]

What he said especially hamon.

My katana is a Kanetsune, the long line down in tsune is a indication of which Gen.

Maybe Mel can help.

[Nicholas]

Here are some pictures of the blade.

[Nicholas]

[Nicholas]

Anyone have an opinion on if this tanto is muromachi or Shinto. I can provide measurements if needed.