thoughts on 2 swords

[Kiwi Ric]

Hey ya guys,

I was looking for peoples view on these 2 blades Im bidding on

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/List...x?id=229753140

and the older signed blade

http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/List...x?id=229756504

thanks fellows

[Steve Flanagan]

Swords

Both decent examples but photos dont go into enough detail to see if there are flaws or grain openings damage or bends of any kind, the Katana would appeal to me more than the Wak even though the Wak is in apparently better polish. But a single flaw or grain opening could hurt the value of both. I would ask for better photos or descriptions

[JRO]

I think I see YOSHIMITSU 義光 on the katana's tang.

[Bob Coleman]

From the images, it is impossible to judge the quality of these blades. As Steve mentioned, swords can seldom be judged from photographs alone. I would never bid on line for a sword without being allowed an inspection time. Both swords appear to have thin, weak looking tangs. This is a aspect often found in mass produced Muromachi era blades. Beware of blisters, cracks and retempers in this situation.