Help Identifying Sword from Grandfather in Burma during WW2

[buzzukka]

Hi, 

 

I am trying to identify my grandfathers sword from WW2. The story is that he took the sword off of a Japanese officer while overseas in Burma. We are not sure about the flag that goes with it either but as far as anyone can remember they (the flag and sword) have been together. 

 

I have attached some photos but please let me know if more photos would help.

 

Thank you!

[Ray Singer]

Please carefully remove the handle and show a clear vertical photo of the nakago (tang) on each side. 

[Scogg]

Hello J, @buzzukka, welcome to the forum, and very cool tanto!

I'm going to relocate your post to the "Nihonto" section. Your grandfathers WW2 story is cool and may be true, but I believe you have an older, traditionally made, Japanese TANTO here.  Also, it's not outfitted in WW2 military fittings. Therefore, I think you will get better feedback in the Nihonto section. 

Proceed with patience and caution, and best of luck. 
Let me know if you have any issues/concerns,
-Sam
 

[Rivkin]

Interesting piece. The nakago, the overall, and the macro of activities (which are clearly visible here) would tell us a lot.

Otherwise, yes, its authentic nihonto, quite probably[?] post 1520, but within this range it can be many things. Hamon has a certain Edo period vibe, but hada wants to look like koto.

But for now its all a wild guess - with better pictures we'll narrow it down to something rather specific.

[Grey Doffin]

Hi J,

Here you will find a care and cleaning brochure: https://nbthk-ab2.org/sword-characteristics/

Please read it carefully. It will help you remove and replace the handle and give you the basics of proper handling. Resist every urge to fix anything; well meaning amateurs have done serious damage.

Cheers, Grey