robinalexander

Hi Garry, Well done with your terminology although it could be sarute and mekugi. They are all Officers swords. 1. is a Type 98 in classic military mounts 2 and 3 both Officers swords, have a combo of military and civilian mounts (not unusual) and both have leather combat covers probably over wooden sayas. Again, not unusual and if the covers are original (and they look it) it pretty well confirms 'active service' I'm down the South Coast and from what you have said you must be in either Newcastle or Sydney, either way I would be happy to have a chat about preservation and mekugi replacement (easy as) etc if you PM me I'd be happy to give you my number. Not wishing to curtail any further conversation here though. Rob

Sam, I'll get the Pattern 1 and Pattern 5 (no bohi) away to you via PM in the next few days

If they get that close Tom, you could be in real trouble.

This could be a start...is that pre-ignition I can hear?

When is your 'All things 95' coming out Sam, because, I for one, would indulge in that. Could be released in draft as a 'works in progress' with reliable member input, and could become quite some publication. Rob

I recall paying a third party for the translation of my first surrender tag. It was a small amount, from memory around $4 USD but I was so happy to pay and receive. Then I 'discovered' NMB and we all know how easy it is to get a bona-fide translation (or honest opinion) on almost anything for no direct cost. I agree, It's gets tricky when you involve (valued/giving) members in an NMB financial arrangement but it is to the benefit of all members. Soo ... maybe identify those translators, we know who they are, and consult with them privately. If you do go down the 'fee for translation path', there is nothing to stop you simply reviewing the arrangement 12 months down the track or earlier if necessary. If things go awry in the mean time, review it at that time. Imo a good idea. Rob

Good one John .... I delved a little further using same system and came up with similar answer Individually, the three kanji came up as " Medical Treatment Bag"

For interest. Copper Type 95 (1st pattern) with mismatched later black saya. Currently for sale via J C Militaria UK.

Matt, now that MORIYAMA-san has done the hard work.... little more info (AI generated).....

Hi Ken, Just a tip in case you don't already know. You specifically mentioned rayskin. From the bottom up, sayas came in shiny black painted wood timber, shark skin (tiny diamond shaped nodules) and rayskin (round polished nodules) the bigger nodules the better (upgraded/expensive). And if your lucky enough to find either a shark or ray in good condition with an original black leather 'combat' cover you have hit the jackpot IMO. Just some thoughts. Rob

Kris. I am not familiar with Mink Oil but I have always used Renapur ...best thing since sliced bread. Search "everywhere" on NMB for RENAPUR and you will pick up a lot of info on that plus other dressings.

Thanks Caden, Looks old and very interesting to me. Pierced tsuba, full set of seppa, aluminium saya which while not rare, is certainly a lot less common and often associated with higher class fittings. Looks like the Tsuka also had a Mon attached ...most probably removed by the original owner prior to/on surrender (WW2) ....quite common unfortunately. @Nobody The Mei is not clear (is Emura a possibility ?) ..... is it possible to get a better picture of the kanji which look like their almost gone. Sometimes talcum powder sprinkled on lightly then wipe off with the fleshy part of your palm. That might bring it out a little more. Who knows someone might have a crack at it. If Nobody can't, then nobody can.

This probably should be in the translation section @Scogg but I will have a guess at ku-ju or 90 and if I get past that hurdle I will say it is possibly an assembly number. Once it hits translation section we will know for sure. Don't put too much weight on my answer just yet. By the way Caden, the tsuka and accompanying fittings look like nice and possibly higher quality. I'm sure there would be others apart from me who might like to see more of your sword, if you were so inclined. Rob

Lucy, apologies in advance for going off topic but I just couldn't help smiling when I read this this morning. If you and your husband intend to have a stop over in OZ either to or from Japan, your are most welcome to peruse my collection....you have already described a couple of my 'treasures' LOL. All the best. Rob

Ditto