Japanese sword help needed

[Ray F]

My buddy has acquired a Japanese sword. This is not my field and I told him I would post some pics here to see if anyone of you learned gentlemen can help with identification - and possible meaning of the inscriptions.
Many thanks in advance.
Here are a few pics:

EXPLODED VIEW

BRASS FURNITURE

GOLD ENGRAVING

ANOTHER ENGRAVING VIEW

TANG ENGRAVING

BLADE TEMPERING

[nickn]

sorry horrible chinese fake

[Stu W]

I agree with Nick. Hopefully your buddy can return it for a refund of his money.

Regards,
Stu

[Ray F]

No sweat guys - my buddy had this 'on approval'.........or in this case - 'non-approval'! hahaha!
And many thanks for your learned opinions, you've saved him some money