Identification Assistance

[Jingang]

I purchased a Japanese knife while in China many years ago and I was curious if anyone could help identifying any info about it. Thanks for any help!

[Gunome]

Sorry I think it is not Japanese but a chinese copy

[Jingang]

It very well could be. I bought it on the street assuming it most likely was. I just wanted to be sure before I do anything to distroy any collector value. If. I may ask what are some of the signs to look for or how may we distinguish a copy from the real thing? Thanks!

[Curran]

It is what we once called a Hong Kong can opener.

It looks like what we would find in the "antique" markets back in Stanley Market circa 1990s.

With the 21st Century Renaissance of Hong Kong, I don't know that you will find these there anymore.

[Jingang]

This must have been around 2004. I had a Chinese friend purchase it for me so I wouldn't pay too much $6-7. I am starting to learn blacksmithing and knife forging and thought I might take some design ideas or practice sharpening/polishing with this.

[Brian]

Well....don't take design ideas from it, because everything is wrong. Shape, style, habaki...everything.

[ROKUJURO]

JINGANG,

if this is not your proper name, please sign all posts with your first name plus an initial as is required here.

It is generally a good idea to learn from Japanese swordsmiths as they are real masters of the craft. Read as much as you can, and look at photos of high quality blades; you will find a wealth of information here on NMB. But also use every opportunity to watch a master smith at work, and of course, train yourself at the anvil! Make a drawing of the intended knife blade beforehand every time and stay close to it when you work.

And: Have fun!