Battle Damaged “Copper Handle” Type 95 NCO Sword

[chgruener]

Hello all,

 

It is my educated opinion that this damage is the result of shrapnel, possibly from a grenade or artillery. There are three total strikes on the sword: one on the scabbard, one through the scabbard and blade, and one on the handle. The trajectory of the projectiles appear to be directed downward, meaning they came from slightly above the carrier of the sword. Lining up the blade with the damage shows us that the sword was partially drawn, approximately one quarter to one half inch, clear of the catch. 

 

Interestingly, the projectile that struck the scabbard (did not penetrate), actually formed the metal scabbard to the blade, leaving the impression of the blade’s fuller.

 

The projectile that struck the handle appears to still be embedded inside.

 

Link to all images: https://imgur.com/a/0h261g3

 

[Ontario_Archaeology]

Pretty big hole! Very cool. 

 

Here is a thread made where other members have posted their gunto with battle scars