Tsukamaki - wrapping query

[matei]

For those who have seen and handled many Type 94, 98 etc swords, how likely is it that they tsukamaki is original to the sword?  

 

In the grand scheme of things the 1930s and 1940s were still within living memory, so I suppose that more than a few of these swords escaped the conflict and possible ill-treatment to survive until today in decent shape, however I've seen quite a few that have wrapping that looks almost too clean.  Granted the blade are also usually in good shape as well, so either someone put in a lot of effort on an old military sword or the original owner was stationed back on the mainland away from the action.

[lonely panet]

95% original imho.  

its very easy to spot  new ito on gunto

 

[robinalexander]

Couldn't agree more Hamish.

 

Not to much mystery here, if it's a real 94, 97, 98,Type 3 then what you see is what it is....mostly period war years or just before.  Pristine wraps are usually post war but there will always be that exception. 

 

Personally I much prefer original, (almost) regardless of condition .... because it was there. But each to their own.

R

[Lareon]

I have a type 98 with a perfect tsuka still in the original white cloth wrapping it came with. So it's definitely something that can happen.

[PNSSHOGUN]

Vast majority will be original. Some of the modern re-wraps going around are absolutely hopeless.