Johncstroud

hey bruce I found a tenshozan tanrenjo for you.

the answer is yes it is and at least now we all have a better understanding of these blades and we all benefit.the other thing is I did not want this swordsmith to disappear into oblivion,the critics may say what they want but in my humble opinion it is an impressive weapon.purpose built and served well for the purpose intended.I sincerely appreciate the time and effort all have devoted to the cause .I am deeply greatful.I hope to say somehow the souls of the departed are somehow appeased Respectfully yours John C. Stroud

In respect to the painted numbers on the nakago so far I have seen the numbers 6,45,73 made by Toyosuke is it reasonable To say these are perhaps serial numbers?to track production?

I present William of Ockham

That leaves a three year window for this to be be made in the meiji period .. Possible yes ,probable no because there is only one mekugi-ana.

Truly Dave not sure but the first stainless steel was in 1921 if I'm correct.but the other possibility is they traditionally made then chromed.or made with bar stock and then Chromed at the end of the war with limited resources anything is possible.

Did they say meiji period?

High class auction for showato huh?

I think Toyosuke made quite afew of these only he really knew .

This is how she cut both layers in one motion the material is American Eagle denim.

Hey Thomas,SteveM found the translation for the mei:Toyosuke saku.Idont know if he was kaigun toko smith,or likely a Toyokawa domiciled smith but that would be speculation on my part.any ideas?

From my family to yours I am deeply greatful for your help unraveling this mystery.should you ever need a tour guide in Puerto Rico I'm your man.Many thanks to all who contributed to the effort!

So what shall I call it ? Shin-kai gunto?

Thats one helluva pig sticker if I ever did see one.Down right purdy.

I,ll post another easier to read.