CurtisR

I saw a program (the narrator was British as I recall) - possibly on PBS or perhaps even Paul Martin's YouTube channel which showed a smith collecting iron nails and selecting them from a Shinto shrine that was torn down for inclusion in a sword he forged. The smith forged the sword with Tamahagane and iron from selected nails, and presented it as a dedication it to the newly built shrine. The sword turned out beautifully, BTW. Sorry I can't remember the name of the program but it was within the last year. Perhaps someone else here can remember the show's name --- I will keep searching and post a link if I can locate it. Curt R.

Although I'm not a chemistry whiz, this is a very interesting thread. Reminds me of reading DNA "profiles" in humans...all are similar but it's the little variances that make the swords' composition unique and identify-able and specific unto itself. Fascinating. Curt R.

You'll really enjoy it Joe - many thanks to those here who recommended it. A wealth of information! Curt R.

Hi John, Here is the link to the site: http://www.lulu.com/ I just put in the name of the book and it came up in hard-bound or spiral. It only took 1 week to arrive, too. Great site! Curt R.

Why do I even bother replying to these posts? A guy tries to share info and (tumbleweeds rolling through the frame)........ One thing I dislike about this board is that a majority of "experts" here are snobbish. Forget it - I'll learn elsewhere. Best fo luck. C.

Interesting concept about a blade being made specifically for beheadings...I'm following the post with interest. In Iaido (At least MJER) there is a technique in Tachiwaza called "Kaishaku" (link attached) specifically designed to assist one committing Seppuku - ending the suffering after the act. It is not normally demonstrated publicly during Iai exhibitons or Shinsa and is considered 'private'. It's learned with a normal iaito/shinke & is a slow, deliberate & powerful technique. I can imagine a very heavy blade would make this one pretty easy! http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kaishakunin Curt

Barry I appreciate it - just ordered it (spiral edition) and saved about $15.00 with the code. Thanks again! Curt R.

Thanks Barry! Always nice to save a buck or two... Curt

Yes John, exactly - I just find the pattern interesting (in the light of Tsukamaki). Thanks! Curt

Sorry for taking so long to reply to Mr. Morita; yes, it is from a (to my eye) old sushi-type cleaver that feels and looks hand-forged. I can't tell if it is folded, or forged simply from one piece but the steel is very nice. I'm guessing it's from the 40's or 50's but only based on the patina. I am also fascinated by the pattern of the wrapping on the grip At the risk of posting something non-Nihonto, I've attached a couple on photos. Again, sorry for the delay to your question. Curt R.

Thank you Barry - I'll pick it up. Building my library.... Curt R.

I found this one and it looks interesting relating to Bizen blades, but has anyone here read it? There were no reviews on amazon that I could find...I also found another that those with far better Japanese language skills may enjoy/want: http://www.amazon.com/Japanese-Swords-B ... 767&sr=1-1 And the second, in Japanese (and pricey): http://www.amazon.com/Gorgeous-Japanese-Swords-Bizen-Tradition/dp/B002CWINOO/ref=sr_1_25?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1320512939&sr=1-25 Thanks in advance for any feedback, Curt R.

Curran and Ed ~ Thank you for posting those photos...amazing blades and craftsmanship! I think it's very interesting that the chant/mantra is associated so closely with Nihonto, and it has quite a few centuries of history behind it. So much to learn....but what fun, yes?? Best, Curt R.

Grey, it is the lighting/shadow I believe...the 'fins' on the posts are attached separately to the body, if that helps clarify? It does appear to be the same metal, but they weren't cast with the body from what I can tell through a 4x loupe. The are also almost black in color, but the direct sunlight makes them appear more silver-ish. I have a decent pair of Edo Persimmon menuki, and the posts appear to be attached in the same (or similar) way. I'm of course open to others' opinions as well about this question.... Curt R.

Yes, Raymond has it dead-on...Nam Myoho Renge Kyo is the translation...I found a decent write-up of the meanings here (for Bruno): http://www.sgi.org/buddhism/sgis-buddhist-practice/nam-myoho-renge-kyo.html I do like them and they're unusual (so you may have to wait a bit for this pair Raymond :D )but would still love to see the pics of the originals...and thanks for the heads-up on taking along a loupe and will be doing that. Now I just need to learn more! Curt R.

I'd love to see that Tsuba Curran, but understand that the owner probably is very protective of it. The Buddhist prayer stars with "Nam"....I looke dit up and will post the rest when I get back to the house where it's written down - I do like 'em; just sad that the work (as Christian noted and I can now see clearly) isn't better. My cost was $150.00, which isn't inexpensive but I won't lose sleep over it. As a side question, when going to shows and sales, do most of "you" carry a loupe to examine Tsuba, blades, menuki, etc? I'm thinking I will get a small one to carry but don't want to be insulting or off-puting to the sellers either. Happy Friday! Curt R.

Thanks Christian - it is better to know the truth! I suspected they were Gendai, but as you outlined the flaws I can see exactly what issues you describe . I need to get better reference books and study more. Fortunately I didn't pay a huge amount for them but still disappointing. And yes, if you can send a link (or PM, or whatever wors best for you) or the original published ones, I'd very much appreciate it - ah well, back to the studying! I suppose I can always wrap them onto an Iaito . Best Regards, Curt R.

Just purchased this pair of Menuki - they were sold as Gendai, but the patina seems a bit older. Just looking for thoughts on possible age - I also found that the kanji was unusual for menuki I've seen, so any opinions on that would be welcome as well, Regardless, I like them and enjoy their unique design. Very heavy, and Shakudo, Thanks, Curt R.

Ah o.k. thank you. Sounds similar to signing "Proudly Made of good materials", basically then? It's from the back of an old (pre-1940's I think, but not Kozuka)and couldn't figure it out. Many thanks! Curt

I'm wondering what Mei this could be...or at least I believe it to be one. Any thoughts or translations greatly appreciated! Regards, Curt

:lol: That makes sense, thanks!

I received this box from a former Marine who acquired this in Okinawa in the 70's...I'm wondering if it's a box for storing Tsuka/koshirae or perhaps for a Kozuka? It also might be one for storing just about anything but thought I'd ask in case someone recognized the style. No writing or other marks, other than it seems very well fitted. Regards, Curt R.

An interesting discussion; I've learned a lot by 'lurking' on this one - thanks to all. And to Ford for the photo essay...I love those little buggers and wondered about their making. Beautiful Kashira and Kozuka, BTW (IMO). Curt

Hi James, Here is an amazing Shishi kashira you may want...I know I do but no matching fuchi. Looks like beautiful work,... http://www.ebay.com/itm/Antique-Shishi-Lion-Koshirae-Japan-Edo-Period-1603-1868-Katana-Silver-Gold-/190587585760?pt=UK_Collectables_Ethnographic&hash=item2c5fe7c4e0 BTW, if you decide to sell the carrot Menuki one day, please let me know. I love the odd ones like they are (smile) and they look like very nice work. Curt R.

I was reading Kira's posts and the responses and may be able to bring a modern-day, practical viewpoint to the argument for BOTH sides. Curran made the point: Well said Curran! In my personal life, I carry a handgun to work every day (and also when I'm off - it's required). I carry a gun that is functional, well-made, absolutely reliable - because my life and lives of others depend on it working well, no matter what - and when violence (God forbid) does happen, it will help me win the battle. This handgun is not "pretty" or modified. If it was a Nihonto, and I was a Samurai, I would want the same to carry each day. I also know or and have held absolutely beautifully made, custom handguns that are kept almost as sacred objects similar to the top Nihonto smith's blades. These are not carried...it would be disgusting to treat them that way, and they were MADE to be objects of beauty by highly skilled smiths/makers. They will also - if used - do as much damage and kill one as dead as the 'ugly' one I carry each day. I've seen plenty of dead people, and none of them left a dying declaration of "But I wanted to be killed with a famous (insert gun, knife, sword, ball-bat, etc.)". If I *had to*, I could carry a famous-maker blade and know it would work just as well as the one that is well-made ( read: "functional") but not as beautiful. But unless I had to,why would I? I think this adds to both sides or the argument, but it's a reality that I know. Sincere Regards, Curt R.