Yari nakago markings

[Davis]

Hi

Several years ago I acquired or should I say rescued a yari. The finely decorated pole was in good condition but the Hira-sankaku-suyari was covered in rust and prevented inspection of the hidden detail. At some time during it's long life it had suffered voilent full-on impact, which has created some misalignment. From time to time I study this piece and wonder. Something that baffles me are some markings it has on the nakago. Are these 1. Measurements 2. Assembly marks 3. Inventory marks 4. After battle notches. I hope to include some approriate pictures but computers and photography are not a strongpoint. I hope that this is of some interest and that some of you may have similiar markings on your yari and can explain what they were intended for.

 

Mick

[Davis]

It appears that the other pictures I tried to attach have got lost, so will try again.

[Gilles]

Dear Mick,

 

I have noticed quite often those lines across YARI nakago, usually situated at the end of it. Where are your lines and notches situated ?

I make a difference between the lines accross the nakago and the notches.

Some well versed people told me that those lines are there to point out the defects of a blade. One line per defect. Is this real, I just don't know

About the notches, I have no answer.

I would be interested to know what are the meaning of such markings.

[Stephen]

Thats a new one to me, least its not how many Samurai the owner killed.

[cabowen]

I believe the notches across the nakago are to help create friction and aid in hold the blade in the shaft. At least that is one explanation I have heard...It makes more sense than flaws (not a chance) or kills.

[Stephen]

Chris, that joggles the memory bank...have heard of that before.

[Davis]

Dear Gilles

This picture will show the location. The blade (still rusty) is bo-hi and 44.5cm in length, the nakago is 45cm, so combined 89.5cm. The nakago is ubu with only one mekugi-ana. The mei I believe reads Heianjo Ju Shimosaka.

Mick