WW2 Japanese Officers Katana

[shingen]

The below Katana has been offered to me:

 

 

 

 

It's been offered for not a bad price. But as I am still learning how to distinguish these from the Chinese copies (that get better everyday, even the aging look) I would really appreciate all help. I am quite new to this so really don't want to buy anything in a hurry.

 

Cheers,

Rick

[Brian]

Not really enough info to tell for sure. Judging by the wrap and typical worn parts with some missing, I would vote real, but mass produced.

That needs to be verified though, preferably with shots of the tang and blade tip, and an overhead full shot. The serial number has definitely been added later, possibly buy a returning serviceman? These did not have a serial number, and most blades with one (short of a few exceptions) are fakes. This one doesn't look to have been done to deceive though...in my opinion of course.

 

Brian

[Jamie]

Being fairly new to this field myself , I would suggest purchasing something in good polish to start with. That way- you can study and learn from it. Without having to wait to have it restored, before learning. Even If that piece is smaller-like a tanto.

Also Read, read, read.

There is a great thread active now Titled Where and how to start. You might want to read that thread, it has many good suggestions for books.

[shingen]

Thanks for the tip Brian and Jamie, am here to learn as much a I can so will have a look at the topic you mentioned.

[estcrh]

Here is a glossary of Japanese sword terms that might help you. http://members.shaw.ca/nihontonut/glossary.html