Thanks again all. I would like to acquire some books, but in a way I am wary of making nihonto a full blown hobby as I did with guitars/amps/recording gear. I'm afraid my lovely wife would be somewhat distraught if I allowed that to happen at this point in our lives. Later, absolutely. I have learned from you all how to not damage them (nakago preservation, never attempt to hone blades, never practice cutting with one, proper storage etc) so I thought I'd get an inexpensive but nicely made wak just to have ONE to behold, until the kids are grown and I can be financially irresponsible again with my passions. I have a couple very nice Japanese style blades (Huawei) to play with, but of course a traditionally made antique is in a different world, art-wise. Interesting how in some ways the art that is nihonto and it's appreciation has much in common with other forms of art including music. I need to tread lightly... addictive personality