ownaSadayoshi

I read somewhere discussing the differences between straight swords and curved swords that it takes much more precision on the part of the wielder to manipulate a straight sword than a curved sword to strike vital areas. I would assume (don't say it) that having a curved sword allowed for less mastery and allowed a less skilled user to be better in battle. It may have played a part to the evolution from straight to curved initially. I mean people had been using straight swords for hundreds of years before the change occurred. No doubt that the changes in time after the first curved sword were all related to horseback, foot solider, quick draw, tempering, polishing, preference and a host of other factors. Perhaps someone with more knowledge in the use of curved versus straight could enlighten us, as I am only repeating what I read. John...

Possibly another explanation for the sori change was the experimentation with heat treating. We all know that when the sword is quenched with thick clay on the mune and light on the ha, the sori curvature is produced. With the advancement of heat treating methods over the years getting better, and application of clay, the position of the sword when quenched, the sori can change location. I'm sure that over time the preference by samurai as to sori placement based on use (horse or foot soldier) played a role as to what was popular. Whichever sword they felt most comfortable in battle with, weight distribution, feel and most success was probably also the sword smith they sought after. Other smiths adopted those changes too, so they would provide what people wanted. Smiths wanted to sell swords, and become the best at their trade. What people wanted is what they made. John

I appreciate everyone's thoughts. I already sent Chris my check for a reservation ticket for shinsa to look at it. If it turns out that it is work from another Sadayoshi, I will be happy with that too. My thinking was that perhaps it was a Gassan school katana, perhaps made by a student under Sadayoshi's supervision. I don't see it out of the realm of possibility that it was made at the Gassan school. Length of the sword, 2 menki, age of the nakago, boshi turn up and kissaki seem like Gassan style. I'm sure that school made alot of swords over the years, and who knows what is possible. I will keep my fingers crossed, but I am happy with my purchase. Thanks everyone.... John

How did you determine it has had many polishes? Also, the term ayasugi refers to seeing the grain hada in the hamon accented. The photos you guys attached have whirling grain and such the ayasugi is whirling in the hamon. My sword has more of a straight grain to the ha, and I see that in several areas. I have attached some additional pics for your review. So do you think this is Sadayoshi's work as identified by the signature or what? Thanks to all. John...

Sorry I didn't put a name or initial to my post... John Some of the information I was hoping to receive are: I noticed the Mei says Sadayoshi, this made by, but normally his works are signed Gassan Sadayoshi. I'm wondering if this was early work while studying under Masahide, or if you all think this was done by a student under his supervision once he started the Dewa Gassan School? I think from my somewhat slim knowledge that this is definitely Gassan work from the ayasugi in the hamon. It seems that this type of activity in the hamon and the boshi would make it an authentic Gassan work, but I am just basing that on my limited knowledge. The blade is extremely thick, thicker than most katana's I had seen. Overall I am happy with the purchase ($3,800), and I am hoping that I made a great purchase. I greatly appreciate any information or feedback. Thanks John H....

Hi everyone, I recently purchased a sword made by Sadayoshi and I was hoping for some feedback from the many experts on this site. I am not totally new (just new to the site) as you can see by my sword choice selection, but I am hoping for some information on what you guys see. I plan to take it for appraisal next February, so I am hoping I made a good buy. I appreciate any thoughts or comments, and thanks to all....