Brian

You're not talking about wide yakiba?

Awesome display!!

You're not wrong.

And thank you Peter

2000AUD should get you a reasonable sword. I agree with the advice given above, but should you want something...make sure the buyer is reputable and I'm sure you'll find something. Bear in mind that $2000 will get you a decent wakizashi but a poor to fair katana. Wakizashi are good bang for the buch when starting out. Am sure you'll get pm offers.

Clove oil is not what you should be using. It can stain a blade and has minimal rust resistance. DON'T use pure clove oil. Choji oil is light mineral oil (like sewing machine oil) with a few drops of clove oil added for scent.

Clean the tang, you devalue it by thousands. It looks like it may have possibilities to be something special. Post more pics and preserve it for now, make sure you wipe the blade with some light oil.

Having been to 2 shows recently, I can tell you there is no stigma attached to being a novice, all the guys are amazing and as long as you understand the basic etiquette and are safe, you'll have a great time. It's very informal, and I think you'll love it.

Not worth it. Not traditionally done, this was done to sell it.

Pics of the entire blade/sword please. When we are seeing there suggests Chinese fake or at least an added signature. Signatures are usually the smith btw, not the person who owned it.

A kozuka/kogatana are worth 100. What's the delay?

It will do nothing at all. It is only used to clean oil off the blade, does nothing to rust or patina.

You'll find in 6 months it's suddenly loose. Huge difference in fit between Summer and Winter. I have shirasaya that you can barely open at times, and 6 months later it's a perfect fit. When made, it would have been a good fit, so it's likely the weather. Let it sit for a while and acclimatize.

I think it was on ok deal, but not a bargain. $400 each. You'll always have around 10 that don't sell, so there's your profit sitting. Not crazy, but ok.