january 1943, number 133, Na, but smith....?

[Klop]

Dear members,

 

I just acquired a gunto which has several markings, If I'm not mistaken it boils down to production number 133 in january 1943, Na(goya arsenal).

The smith however is a problem to me, because of the hasty inscription I can't even count the strokes to figure out the kanji

 

Very long shot on the first character - based on the square in the lower right-... Suke?

 

Can you help me identify the smith?

 

Thanks a lot,

Eric K.

[Bruno]

SUKECHIKA?

[Grey Doffin]

Katsumasa, I believe.

Grey

[Klop]

Bruno, Grey,

 

Thank you for the input!

 

I believe Grey is right, a google on Katsumasa led me to a sword which seems almost the same, from signature via yasurime to the date and stamp.

 

That one is just a few numbers higher; see http://www.shibuiswords.com/gunto.htm

 

Best regards,

Eric K.

[Grey Doffin]

Another by Katsumasa just showed up on ebay.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/WW2-Japanese-Army-Officers-Samurai-Sword-Katana-/190668953965?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2c64c1596d

Grey

[Klop]

That one 's better then mine, hot stamps look cool :-)

 

Best regards,

Eric K.