Saya hanger terminology - clarification needed

[Kolekt-To]

This should be an easy one for the experienced collector - I would like some clarification for terms used to describe the hanger piece of gunto sayas. I will list the terms and I'd appreciate it if you guys would comment and specifically define these terms. I'm a bit confused, currently. Here are the terms:

 

Ashi = ?

 

Haikan = ?

 

Obi-tori = ?

 

From my readings thus far, it almost seems like these terms were used interchangeably in reference to the saya hanger(s).

[MarcoUdin]

According to Nick Komiya from warrelics forum the correct terminology is Haikan. However, most English literature on the subject calls them Ashi. 

 

I wouldn't be too worried about it, every seasoned collector will understand both with no judgement.

 

[Stephen]

Ashi known as metal fitting with the ring.

[Bruce Pennington]

From my reading, it seems that ashi was the original one used on civil swords before the westernization of gunto.  Once the modern army created the "gunto" and had regulations for terms and equipment, they came up with the "haikan" term.  So ashi is a civil term and haikan is a military term.

[MarcoUdin]

Here is the link in case you wanted to see their reasoning behind using Haikan. 

https://www.warrelics.eu/forum/Japanese-militaria/type-94-katana-711219-2/

 

Ohmura also uses Haikan.

[Kolekt-To]

Thanks guys! 

 

So what is an "Obi-tori"? I have also seen this in reference to gunto suspension mounts - is it a component of the Haikan/Ashi?

[PNSSHOGUN]

Have never seen that used, sounds like someone trying to confuse people!

[MarcoUdin]

Don't quote me, but I believe Obi-tori as the leather loops from belts used on tachi mounts. Don't believe it has anything to do with the suspension ring.

 

Either way, I use the term Ashi because it's the first thing that comes to mind. If you don't feel confident, just call them suspension rings. Nobody here will judge you.

[Kolekt-To]

Apparently, Obi-tori refers to the actual hanger ring(s) attached to the Ashi/Haikan - a component of the Ashi/Haikan. Thus, the officer's belt clip would attach itself to the Ashi/Haikan by way of the Obi-tori (ring).