Real sword or Chinese fake?

[NickCT]

Hey guys,
I came across an estate sale this morning and this sword was on a table inside. I didn't pay much for it at all, the woman that was there didn't know much about its history, and there are a few red flags for me like the characters on the sword. The number and characters are all etched onto the blade, but it was the Kokura Armory symbol that made me take it. Maybe it's me but I haven't come across any of the fakes that had that on there. Either way, I didn't pay much so if it turns out to be a Chinese knock off I won't feel terrible about it! Here's some pics - thanks boys!

[NickCT]

[ral6014]

[GeorgeP]

Sorry Nick, it is a repro.



Tom

[NickCT]

Thanks Tom, I had a feeling it was. Any tips or advice for how to spot it more easily next time? Thanks!

[ral6014]

Thanks Tom, I had a feeling it was. Any tips or advice for how to spot it more easily next time? Thanks!

Brass tsuka, no habaki, kanji at the blade, wrong bohi, etc. etc. There exists much more better fakes....

[Stu W]

Thanks Tom, I had a feeling it was. Any tips or advice for how to spot it more easily next time? Thanks!

Have a look here ...

http://dev.wehrmacht-awards.com/foru...d.php?t=495813


It's an old thread but will perhaps show you enough of some features to assist with comparisons in the future.

Regards,
Stu

[Papa Nambu]

Japanese swords are something you should study a bit before you sink any money into one. You don't need to be an expert to spot the average Chinese fake, especially with military swords. Spending a little time familiarizing yourself with what the real swords look like will help you notice when something isn't right.