Hello everyone,
I’m Brandon, and I’m a new member and beginner-level student of the Japanese sword from Ontario, Canada. I’m very excited to have found this forum, and I’ve already learned far more than I’d imagined possible reading through various topics and posts, so thanks very much to you all for contributing to this great resource.
I’ve long been a collector of Great War and WWII era firearms and militaria, however my passion has always been earlier history since University days, and my interests have now shifted to reflect this (Admittedly, this shift has also been impacted by recent political realities in Canada). I find the reverence of the sword in Japanese culture fascinating, and I’d be hard pressed to identify any objects of great significance as well preserved to this day as Koto. I’ve picked up many of the books recommended in other introductory posts, so I have much to look forward to learning.
If any members in the Ontario region could recommend shows, clubs, etc which could further my knowledge of these blades I’d be greatly indebted to you. Also, I’m quite used to travelling down South to the Show of Shows in Louisville, so if any of our American friends could suggest the most ideal sword-related events as well that would also be fantastic.
Thanks again for establishing a great community here, and I wish you all the very best!