Military sword books

[The Blacksmith]

Hello Folks,

 

A quick question if I may please, and I hope this is perhaps the correct section to post this query....... Apologies if it isn't.

 

I am trying to expand my library and as Japanese military swords are a particular area of interest for me, I have been wondering about buying a copy of Dawson, Swords of Imperial Japan 1868-1945. However, I see that the Royal Armouries also have a publication available, John Plimpton Swords of the Emperor 1873-1945.

 

 

 

Does anybody have any recommendations or observations as to which is perhaps the better or more useful tome please, or should I simply buy both? It never hurts to have extra books anyway does it.......

 

Many thanks for all and any help.

[Kantaro]

If you have to choose I would recommend the Dawson.

[Marcin]

Go for both easy. Dawson is recommended as better then others but Plimpton have many good examples too.

[The Blacksmith]

I collect books on arms and armour anyway, so it isn't too difficult to have to buy both.

 

Thank you gents.

[Danny D]

Gentlemen,

 

Dawson‘s book is what I would consider the gold standard. That being said, Plimpton’s book comes with a very high-level of photography that is second to none and amongst the best I’ve seen in any sword book. Headstamp publishing has a reputation to uphold.

 

Best,

 

Danny

 

 

Edited April 16 by Danny D

[John C]

I like Dawson's because it is well rounded with examples of both high-end and pedestrian examples. I think Plimpton's collection was mostly high-end, though he does have some rare stuff.

 

John C.

[PNSSHOGUN]

Dawson offers far more value and useful detail for the money. 

[The Blacksmith]

Thank you very much for your thoughts gentlemen. This is most helpful indeed!

[lonely panet]

plimptons book was just a fancy sales cataloge,  not much info inside