Fusilier Posted February 10 Report Posted February 10 G'day, I recently purchased this gunto for resale. When I first saw it I thought the hamon was unusual and the blade was distinct from many I've seen in that appeared a bit more 'refined' if that is the right word. I was wondering whether its possible to determine the quality of the blade just by looking at images of the blade and the hamon or whether that is only possible if you can physically examine the sword. I've checked to see if there are any of the 'seki' like stamps often found on showa-to blades, that Bruce's outstanding online article covers, and I can't see any. I'd also appreciate a translation of the mei and any information anyone may have on the smith. Cheers David 1 Quote
moriarty Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 Greetings Bill, Many congratulations on the new addition, hope you're enjoying it. As of now the signature is Watanabe Masanobu--渡辺正延 (Thanks Conway for the correction!) Couldn't find much on this Watanabe(s), since they bear apparent connection to Kanenaga Kind Regards 2 Quote
Conway S Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 Maurice, I was thinking Watanabe Masanobu - 渡辺正延. Take a look on the forum and you will see signatures for this smith vary greatly. Maybe I am way off though.... Conway 2 1 Quote
Conway S Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 David, Maybe it's obvious to you, but the scabbard is for a Type 3, whereas the rest of the mounts are Type 98. 1 1 Quote
moriarty Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 6 minutes ago, Conway S said: Maurice, I was thinking Watanabe Masanobu - 渡辺正延. Take a look on the forum and you will see signatures for this smith vary greatly. Maybe I am way off though.... Conway I can definitely see your point Conway! Since they all look so different, could we be dealing with different smiths/students under the same moniker? This one does appears pretty low on the quality scale 1 Quote
Brian Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 It's a fairly standard arsenal oil quenched Gunto, with an incorrect scabbard. 1 1 Quote
Stephen Posted February 11 Report Posted February 11 The chippy mei is something rushed on the factory assembly line. More of a tribute to big name Smith. I don't have my Slough's at hand if Masanobu is in you can tell the difference. Have you check the Japanese sword index. 1 Quote
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.