Kris Johnson

Thank you for the information, Ian. It is helpful for sure. I’m no expert but my grandfather actually brought two swords home from WWII. This one I have pictured, which is very sharp or was at one time, and another that was definitely a tourist consumer sword that had a very dull blade and very ornate. I have been to Japan while in the service and it matched what I saw in souvenir shops. The one I posted just looks and feels older, maybe more authentic rather than tourist quality. I guess that’s why I put it in here, so I could possibly learn more about this sword. Thanks again for your input.

Thanks for all the feedback, Bruce. No offense taken at all. I wasn’t sure if I should worry about having it refurbished by an expert or just leave it as is. I will keep it with my grandpa’s fight helmet and radio and other personal WWII memorabilia.

not sure if these are going to work, but I’m gonna give it a try. It sounds like it may have been what has been said on this thread, a civilian military sword.

Thanks everyone for the information. My grandfather served in the Navy from January 1942 to September 1945. He was on a few different aircraft carriers and was part of the naval bombardment of Peleliu. I think he may have also been in the 2nd battle of the Philippines, and possibly the pre-invasion of Okinawa. I don’t think he was land based but rather on a carrier. Could it be possible he may have traded it with a Marine in the carrier!?! I cannot get the photos to upload but the blade is approximately 21.5”. It is very sharp from tip to guard. The Kissaki is 1 inch. There are distinct tapper lines, but it’s hard to see if not in the right lighting/angle. It appears there may be some lite stamps in the tang but it is hard to tell with the patina and grind markings.

Thank you for the information, John. It is a great start for me.

My grandfather, who served as an aerial gunner and navigator on an Avenger in WWII, gave me this sword just before he passed. He would not talk about the war or his experiences, ever. We also have his navigational map of the pacific with hand written flight routes and his flight logs with all the details of successful bombings as well as losses during combat. He did tell me he received this sword when he was in the Pacific Theater during his time in the Navy. Can anyone tell me anything about this sword? The handle wrap and material has just become more and more brittle over the years- even stored in a safe. Just wanting to put a little more history behind my grandfathers military service. Oh, it’s extremely sharp and I cannot see a makers mark on the tang. Thanks kindly. kris Johnson