Scogg

But you're not simply urging people to look deeply before making a purchase. You're saying that newcomers should strive to meet a criteria, defined by you, for what makes a "good" first purchase, also defined by you. This field is way to nuanced to make such sweeping claims about how much someone else should spend. -Sam

Yeah, i'm a bit lost at this point . Too many assumptions levied on too many hypothetical parties. I'll end my input by saying: Nobody, as far as I can tell, has discouraged going to shows, museums, or spending time learning before a purchase.

I don’t disagree that education and patience are key; of course we should all aim to learn before buying blindly. But the idea that someone must wait X amount of time, study X amount of hours, and spend X amount to avoid a “burn” overlooks that collecting is often personal, not transactional. Experience isn't always linear or curated through perfect choices. Sometimes a “mistake” sword sparks deeper interest, or sentimental value outweighs market logic. Gatekeeping what’s considered a valid entry point risks discouraging genuine curiosity. Encouraging people to engage, even imperfectly, isn’t toxic, it’s how many of us started.

What do you say to those individuals, who may not be as fortunate as you, who cannot meet the expectations of saving for a "quality" blade at 8k? Don't bother?

Maybe I'm misinterpreting the point you're making, but: I think where we disagree is in the assumption that most collectors are, or should be, moving toward a focused thematic collection built around a particular era or category like Gendaito. That kind of direction certainly has merit, especially for those who enjoy the academic or historical side of the hobby. But not all collectors approach this with that framework in mind. Some are drawn to individual pieces for personal, aesthetic, or even sentimental reasons; regardless of period, maker, quality, or school. For those collectors, the goal isn’t to “build a collection” in the traditional sense, but to find pieces that speak to them on a more immediate level. One of my favorite pieces, ya'll would probably rate a 2 out of 10 (it's personally sentimental). In that context, applying a structured collecting logic, like saving $8K to target the best of Gendaito, may not resonate at all. It’s not that they necessarily lack experience or knowledge, it’s that their goals are different. They’re not trying to optimize within a category; they’re pursuing connection, variety, or even just curiosity. So while I respect your point about direction and learning over time, I don’t think it’s the only, or even the most valid, way to approach this hobby. That’s exactly why I emphasized subjectivity. What matters to one collector might mean very little to another, and that diversity is part of what keeps this field interesting. Who are we to say that a first sword at 2k isn't a learning opportunity, or even a treasured piece in somebody else's collection? I agree that saving for a nice item is a good thing, and should be encouraged for newbies. I just don't agree on placing these arbitrary monetary figures on collectors across the board. I believe using those types of sweeping broad-brush expectations are what causes many people to view the hobby as "elitist". I subscribe to the opinion that an OK sword can be found at a variety of price levels, can be learned from, and those levels are different for every individual. -Sam

I stand by my previous comment on quality. But for the average collectors point of view: the perceived quality of available blades will range; what one collector sees as a “good” blade at $12,000, another might not consider worthwhile unless it’s over $100,000. These evaluations are shaped by personal taste, collecting goals, and financial means. Saving for a $12K blade is a commendable goal, but that price point is ultimately arbitrary and varies widely among collectors. Given that swords range from a few hundred to well over six figures, it’s all relative. -Sam

What makes a sword objectively great or bad isn’t relative; it’s based on craftsmanship and quality and to some level historical significance. But what makes a sword a great addition to my collection is 100% personal. I've handled blades from junk quality to TokuJuyo, and the reality is, most collectors (myself included) won’t own an objectively "great" blade due to budget. Instead, I focus on what’s “good for me”; pieces that align with my goals and limitations. If you love Nihonto, have seen top-tier blades, but have a modest budget, it’s unlikely you’ll collect anything truly “high-end.” And that’s okay. You just need to find what’s meaningful within your reach. And maybe more importantly, understanding what it is that you're buying. Just my views as someone who has no intent to profit from my collection, -Sam Edit: To remain on topic, I have saved for items in my collection, and I think people should push their budget, and be patient, to get the best they can afford. But what i've been able to save might be pennies relative to what others are capable of. I am under no illusions that my collection reflects that.

Lots of trusted dealers listed here on the NMB that I would recommend. If any new collectors find themselves in these threads of yours, I think there’s plenty of arguments on both sides to consider. I subscribe to the opinion that nicer items offer more satisfaction long term. And I think it’s important for new collectors to see that viewpoint. When new pages are created for this thread, those counter arguments get easily lost in the mass of pages. So here we are again -Sam

The idea that items can be bought on eBay is not at all novel. Many people have bought on eBay. It just requires a careful eye, and more importantly, knowing what you’re buying to the best of your ability. I would refer to my comment on the top of page 2 of this same thread I personally would not recommend eBay to new collectors.

I think I got what I paid for, and I’m happy with that. I appreciate the effort he puts into his descriptions. Bargain isn’t the word I’d use, as I’d never expect to get more than what I paid for it because I’m not a dealer

No, but as a moderator I often read the “new” posts. Especially ones from threads that have a history of heated discussions. Just a coincidence, sorry if that bothers you. -Sam Edit: For what it’s worth, I’ve also bought and been happy with items from that dealer.

eBay has dealers too, and those are photos from a dealer that I recognize. He puts much effort into his descriptions and is knowledgeable about the items he sells

Not exactly, but I’m struggling to find sources with good images this is what I was thinking https://www.marto.es/index.php/en/marto-en/oriental-weapons/katana-detail

I think that’s the logo for something called “marto” Ive seen them shared on social media over the years. Kind of a mall-sword / display replica as far as I understand

The rarity and desirability of a "serial number 1" would likely command a premium; and could be the kind of item that might attract a buyer for whom money is no object. Although, that sword likely no longer exists. In addition to the initial production run of Copper handled Type 95s from 1937, there are also reports of prototypes dating back to the 1920s. Nick Komiya discusses these early examples in the Warelics thread (linked below), with quote and image attached here: https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/Japanese-militaria/short-development-history-type-95-gunto-676112/?s=7148dfd90e6b382bc90f0ac3f85e0bd9 "Prototypes 1 to 4 (1923-1928) The first prototypes were ready in March of 1923, which followed the precedent of the Type 32 by having a cavalry version and another version for un-mounted troops. These were presented for testing at the Toyama School and the Cavalry School. However, surprisingly, both schools responded, saying that a sword for a two-handed grip was more desirable, which gave rise to a common version for both types of services. This was the concept of the second prototype, submitted to both schools in March 1925. The new design was favorably received, but some added weight as well as a shift of the center of gravity to the front was suggested. Such was then the third prototype that was tested in September 1926. The blade was thicker by 0.5mm among other changes. The feedback pointed to too much curvature in the blade and the schools preferred a grip closer in design to a Samurai sword. Also, the Cavalry School did some back-treading, saying a handguard would not be unwelcome. The 4th round of prototype tests were carried out in May 1928 and the 5th round followed in September 1929." So, begs the question, where are these prototypes hiding? Do any still exist? Would they be worth more for rarity, or less because they're fairly unknown? I think there's one in Dawsons, but I don't have my books on me right now. I've seen claims that they're still around, but nothing concrete. -Sam

Funny, selling my collection of Star Wars Legends Comics is what allowed me to purchase my first gunto May the force be with you, -Sam

The lowest serial number that I have recorded is #4, and the source is Donald Barnes, which is also listed in Dawsons. The lowest number I've ever seen online (with my own eyes), is #71 with matching saya. Shared here on the NMB earlier this year. 161 is very low, and would be a valuable addition to any Japanese military sword collection. But for 9k?! I’d rather have a papered koto blade in nice polish If anyone has questions regarding 95s, I'm always happy to share what i've gathered. All the best, -Sam

Desire is the cause of suffering In these circles (on NMB), I’d argue it’s taboo to rush into a purchase. -Sam

If you click on the original image, it expands with some great detail. Maybe try the brightness on your device. I’ve edited a version from your image and adjusted the contrast a little. Maybe it helps?

I've learned more from these Kantei posts than I have in years of trying to decipher Jacques' cryptic one-liners . Sad indeed... Looking forward to the answer on this one, -Sam

Between about $100 and $200 USD, per inch, for a polish is what i've heard around the grapevine. So a 26 inch katana would presumably cost ~$3900 for a full polish; give or take depending on the polishers current pricing. Keep in mind that the cost of polishing a sword doesn’t always reflect the sword’s actual value. For example, you might spend $4,000 on a polish for a sword that would only be worth $3,000 even after full restoration. I see swords with mismatched seppa very frequently. Maybe even more often than with properly fitted seppa All the best, -Sam

Thank you @Lewis B and @SteveM, my excited mistake. I’ve edited my previous post to reflect

Incorrect: Pictures of the Shintogo Kunihiro Correction: Hatakeda Moriie Another scenario where it looks way better in person because of the barrier. It’s pretty challenging to get a good photo of these display blades, and there’s lots of people. Still, I hope my photos offer something to admire

Got a better photo of the Go Yoshihiro kissaki But this is the best my phone can do given the barrier, angles, and light

Found some S motif tsuba at the 25’ SF sword show. One listed as a bracken plant, which I think is interesting. It’s also a little more elongated than the other examples. Interesting shape that I don’t see depicted very often. -Sam