Toryu2020

The sword is signed SHIMADA YOSHISUKE SAKU or "Made by Shimada Yoshisuke" a well known smith who did not work during the war rather this signature is an homage so the soldier can carry a famous name into battle. The stamp is a SEKI stamp and means the blade was not traditionally made. Even so there will be interest for a sword like this in this condition... -t

There are no better SAGEO than those from Kiryudo... Silk Sageo,Sazanami-Weaving Single color Iaido Japanese swords Katana – Kiryudo/桐生堂

Cord "Sageo" | Sword Accessories | Namikawa Heibei Co Ltd

Koshirae Parts - Namikawa Heibei Co Ltd

There is a nascent group in San Antonio - if interested send me a PM and I will put you in touch. -t

PM Sent

Walter is a good guy - David McDonald is another resource... Japanese Swords, Antique swords, WWII swords, Tsuka-maki, Translations, Restoration, Sell, Buy

I would clarify METHOD TWO - the tip should just clear the floor if you like a longer sword, it should be about an inch above the floor if you like a shorter sword... -tch MJER 7 Dan

I am going to say rather than trying to cram for this like a test, you could hire an expert for the day. There are ex-pats (experts) who are currently living in Japan that specialize in this field. Someone like Paul Martin or better yet Robert Hughes who is on this board could I am sure act as a guide for a day at a small fee, take you to sword shops, help you negotiate deals, help you recognize quality and later handle export procedures. This way you can travel with confidence and avoid a feeling of being lost or unable to communicate thus ensuring a happier experience... -t

Something for Piers perhaps…