short gunto WW2

[CED13000]

hi
thank you to identify this gunto
nagasa measuring 60,4 cm (23.78 inches)
the nakago is not signed
thank you
cordially
ced

[Sengoku]

I see some issues with this one unfortunately. The wrap is not done properly, a little detail that actually affects the functionality and so would never have passed inspection. The tang (nakago) is not typical, and so gives cause for concern, and the sarute, loop for the sword knot, is too large.
Most of the other pieces look genuine, and the menuki are very interesting, looking somewhat like floating chrysanthemum.
A bit of a puzzle. What do you know for certain about it's origin, as opposed to what you have been told by someone else.

[CED13000]

hi
i think the wrap is done properly but very used
i think the blade is older and has been modified during WW2
cordially
ced

[BruceP]

I can't tell you anything about the old blade, but it's pretty normal to see all sorts of fittings on these when they had been retro-fitted for war service, which this one looks like it was.

[CED13000]

hi
thank you Bruce
cordially
ced

[GHP]

I agree with CED and Bruce.

Old, re-fitted for combat.

Read this article: Program for converting family blades and short blades into Gunto.

"...Swords suitable as Gunto, coming with a minimum blade length of 54.5 centimeters (21.5") will be bought up at fair prices. However, please understand that those valued at more than 500 Yen and naturally those that reveal themselves to be of national treasure class or of particular historical value in the preliminary acceptance Shinsa screening will need to be excluded, and we ask that they be kept in your custody to be preserved on behalf of the nation. Please be sure to clearly tag with name and address the blades you submit...."

Cheers,
--Guy

[CED13000]

hi
Guy
thank's
do you think 950$ is a good price?
cordially
ced

[GHP]

hi
Guy
thank's
do you think 950$ is a good price?
cordially
ced

I'm not a collector ... but if I were buying a sword, I'd spend $400 more for a more typical gunto.

Then again ... maybe the market is different in France.


--Guy

[Stu W]

hi
Guy
thank's
do you think 950$ is a good price?
cordially
ced

If that's USD then my opinion is NO.

Regards,
Stu

[CED13000]

hi
ok thank's
how much do I have to buy it then? the blade is correct
the tsuba is correct
I do not know where you find your gunto or your katana
all those I see at $ 400 do not have the blade
if you find me one in the $ 700 like this I buy it
thank you
cordially
ced

[oldhonda]

This sword is in so-so condition. It's good for advanced buyers and re-sellers!

The availability of Japanese swords is very regional. We also have the online auctions.

From what I see your situation, forget about getting a deal. Aim for the condition of the sword. Prepare to pay the highest amount of the day to buy the best condition sword that you can find and afford.

In the end, a higher price nice sword will bring much more joy to your life than a lower price so-so condition sword. Do your research, learning, and at the same time, save up for the sword funds.

[CED13000]

thank you all
as far as I'm concerned I prefer parts that have lived and have been used a lot, like this gunto
thanks to your pertinent remarks I was able to negotiate this gunto at a price that suits me 500 € (approximately 613 $)
Best regards
ced

[nickn]

The menuki look like tobacco pouch ornaments
And if the blade has a fatal flaw there is no value in this sword
As has been said spend more ,or get lucky, and buy a better sword
I have bought three gunto since Christmas two gendiato the other a mantetsu for little money at uk antique/flea markets there are lots more French fairs

[CED13000]

The menuki look like tobacco pouch ornaments
And if the blade has a fatal flaw there is no value in this sword
As has been said spend more ,or get lucky, and buy a better sword
I have bought three gunto since Christmas two gendiato the other a mantetsu for little money at uk antique/flea markets there are lots more French fairs

thank you
I like it is essential
if you have three bought cheap you have to sell me one

what do you want to tell by "The menuki look like tobacco pouch ornaments "

cordially

[GHP]

what do you want to tell by "The menuki look like tobacco pouch ornaments"

See attached image for Japanese tobacco pouch with large "menuki" on the flap.


Regardless if the ones on that sword are or are not pouch ornaments, the one I can see looks to be tightly under the wraps and done professionally.

I once had my parachute wings and air assault wings (image below) wrapped as menuki on one of my swords. Wish I had a photo ... but that was light-years ago in the last century!

--Guy