Tanto critique sought

[vantique]

Hi People, 

 

Here is a tanto for your inspection. Is it authentic and old? Thank you. 

[Brian]

Souvenir type tanto, likely war end or after the war. Not traditionally made, they are tanto but in the crudest terms. Some maybe sold as souvenirs at shrines etc. So probably made around the war times, but not a well made traditional tanto.

[GeorgeLuucas]

Hi Vincent, 

To my novice eye, it looks authentic, and probably antique (although impossible for me to tell how old)

Looks like a very crude and low quality shortening of a longer blade - probably to appeal to the tourist market. The nakago looks bad, and the spine/mune look pretty funky.

Personally, I would avoid it unless it were being given away... And i've been known to buy swords in less than ideal condition/quality. 

Just my two cents,
Best of luck,
-Sam

Edit: Brian beat me to it! And he's more knowledgeable than me
Cheers!

Edited October 12, 2023 by GeorgeLuucas

[John C]

Agree with the above... a "cut down" piece from a broken blade with short grinder-made bohi. No habaki?  Probably for the tourist trade.

 

John C.

[vantique]

Thank you. Your comments are very much appreciated.