Freedomnasa

"Thank you for sharing your insight! I really appreciate your perspective. I agree with you that it has a strong Koto vibe. Based on the Sugata and the Nakago, I also suspect that it might be an 'O-suriage' (shortened) blade, possibly converted from a Tachi to a Katana during the Sengoku or early Edo period. The presence of two Mekugi-ana and the way the Nakago is shaped seem to support this. The fittings also match this 'battle-worn' character perfectly—especially the iron Fuchi-Kashira and the Maru-gata Tsuba with Udenuki-ana (safety cord holes). It’s a very charming piece of history to hold, even with the heavy patina. Thanks again for your valuable input!" Pown.

Thanks Lex for your comment.

Hello everyone. I'd like to ask for your opinions on this sword. I just acquired it. The tang has no mei. Based on the blade shape, is there a possibility it's a tachi sword with the tang cut off? thank Pown

I just bought this set and it's on its way to me, so I wanted to know what other members think.

This set comes with a tsuba (Japanese steamed bun) as you can see in the picture, but I intend to use this tsuba to replace the one that came with it.

Thank you for your comment . Pown

From what era of Japanese history do you think this kosirae belongs? Thank Pown

Thank you very much Dale for your information. Best regards Pown.

I'd like to hear everyone's opinions about this tsuba (handguard). I recently acquired it and coincidentally found another similar one on eBay. The most noticeable difference is the level of detail. Ref https://ebay.io/m/9dhuqv

After Cleaning

In what era do you think this tsuba was made, and do you have any background information or history about the craftsman that I can use for further study? Pown

Thank you very much Piers best regards Pown

Could someone who can translate this text please help me?

Thank you so much Alex for liking it. I didn't polish the blade on this one because I wanted to showcase the blade's age and its natural charm. Best Pown

Hi all. What do you think of this tsuba? It's in its original, uncleaned condition. Personally, I find it simple and not extravagant, but it has a calm and charming quality.

Thank you Grey

Thank you Thomas

Hello everyone . Please help me for this mei . Do you think about this Mei . Thank you in advance

Rare and Complex Geometry (Kanmuri-otoshi-zukuri) This is not a standard, flat-sided blade. The "Crown-drop" (Kanmuri-otoshi) style is exceptionally rare for a tanto. Master Craftsmanship: It requires the smith to taper the spine (Mune) down to a secondary edge towards the point. Achieving perfect symmetry on both sides while maintaining structural integrity is a high-level skill. High Risk: This shape is prone to cracking or warping during the traditional water-quenching (Yaki-ire) process. Only a confident bladesmith would attempt this design.

Thank you very much for your comment Brian.

Dear Matsunoki I specified the design I wanted and had an expert create it for me.

Hi everyone, I’d like to share a recent restoration project. My goal for this piece was simple: "It doesn't have to be pristine; it just has to be 'Real'." I focused on an aging process (restoration) that respects the blade’s history rather than hiding it. However, during the process, I discovered some fascinating technical details on the Nakago (tang) that I’d love to get your thoughts on. Blade Details & Findings: blade long : 21 inc ,thickness :7-8 mm (Wakizashi) The Nakago: Features heavy Tagane-ato (chisel marks) and a deep patina. The Mystery Mark: I found a deep hole that was drilled/punched but did not go all the way through. The Evidence: Upon inspecting the original wood handle (Tsuka), I found a deep indentation matching the hole’s position perfectly. Inside that hole, there were traces of a soft metal—likely lead. My Restoration Work: Tsuka (Handle): Rebound in a deep crimson wrap, aged patina to match the dark iron fuchi-kashira (bird & bamboo motif). Sageo: Classic black, also weathered to avoid looking "too new" against the Ishime-finish scabbard. I would love to hear your insights on a few things: Lead-filling (Counterweighting): How common is it to find lead-filled balance adjustments in period swords (Edo or earlier)? The "Blind" Hole: Does this specific style of non-through-hole for balancing point to any particular school or regional craftsmanship? Aesthetics: Does the aged crimson look do justice to a blade that is clearly "reached its era" (Toji-mono)? Looking forward to learning from your collective expertise!

That's a very beautiful and charming knife design. I also have a knife with the same shape as yours.