Justin Grant

Might I ask what the significance is of the black saya? I have not see one that color previously, although admittedly, I have not paid to much attention in the past, as I did not own one. It appears to also be a vermilion color under the black.

I just received my Mantetsu Spring 1940. Photos are from seller, Ray Singer.

Here is a bullet hole, in a narigawa kabuto

I think it's been moved and not reinstalled correctly.

I am still looking. Let me know what you have. Thanks

Not in my opinion. It would not be original, so leave it be, or find an original one online, if lucky enough.

No, the leather that remains seems to be holding it on. The leather wraps over it very tightly. Seems this style of cover was never intended to removed , so maybe the lack of screw was by design.

Here is a picture of mine. Small metal band without any decoration.

Here is my 98 with black lacquer saya and what remains of the leather saya cover.

Thank you. Much appreciated!!

Yes, it has a bo-hi.

Thank you, Bruce. My understanding is that the 98 was a private purchase by officers, so would the wood saya and leather cover have been a cheaper purchase over a metal saya? I read somewhere that the wood saya with a leather cover was a later war effort to reduce costs and materials needed for the war. I've been sucked into these Gunto lately, now owning two (this one and a Type 0). My main line of collecting is Armor, but something about these interest me greatly.

Here you go.

I have a Yoshida Yoshitsugu type 98, and it has the leather cover over a black wooden saya. The blade is signed, but not dated, so wondering if anyone can place this sword on the timeline based on the cosmetic attributes? Thanks Justin