Japanese NCO Scabbard Question

[themilitaryman]

Hello,
I have seen multiple NCO swords for sale with a black painted scabbard. Is this something that was known to be done during the war or just post war repaints? Any information would be appreciated.

Thanks

[Stu W]

I have come across perhaps half a dozen over the years. To anyone familiar with the Type 95 scabbards it was clear they were repaints, and from the way the paint flaked off with just the slightest of pressure, latex in nature. I believed they were repainted many years post war.

Perhaps there were period repainted examples. I don't know. Just offering up my limited observations.

Regards,
Stu
PS: I also don't subscribe to the theory these were painted black to assist in concealment during night raids or massed charges. The various shades of brown they were issued in are non reflective and plenty dark enough for night use in my view.

[Bob Coleman]

I concur with Stu's position on this.

[gunto]

Im with Stu.

[themilitaryman]

Thanks guys.