WW2 Kai Gunto identification.

**tpotter457** · 05-01-2014, 10:30 PM

My friend purchased this sword quite cheaply from an antiques dealer last year. The low price was because the gentleman specialised in antiquities and apparently obtained the sword in a lot through auction.
It looks to be a WW2 Kai Gunto from the saya and fittings, however I personally have some reservations about it.

First the wrapping on the handle has been repaired to a high standard at some point (you can see the difference between the two areas).
In addition, the fittings look crude to me; there are weld lines visible that I haven't seen on other swords.
Finally, the scabbard is an unusual colour I think, and has been covered in fake fishskin.

That said, the sword is clearly old. The blade is machine-made and the tang unmarked, which is another red flag for me.

When he obtained the sword the blade was in shocking condition; it had apparently been blunted at at some point, as well as having suffered a botched sharpening/ polishing job. A friend who is handy with swords was able to repair most of the

damage and polish up the blade to a nice standard.
I've seen how knowledgeable the members of this forum are, and wondered if anyone could turn their expertise to this item and identify whether or not it is a reproduction (I don't like the term 'fake'!)
Any information is much appreciated!

**Walkwolf** · 05-01-2014, 11:02 PM

Hi and welcome to the Forum. I think 'Fake' is a suitable
term for this sword.........

**tpotter457** · 05-08-2014, 05:15 AM

Well this is weird. I tried posting this a week ago and its only come through now. I put up another post about the sword because I thought this hadnt worked. I'm sure someone will know how to delete the thread.
Thanks steve, I was very doubtful myself! I think the idea of a 'fake' is very misleading though. I prefer to see items like this as bad reproductions unless there is an intent to fool buyers!

**Walkwolf** · 05-08-2014, 05:33 AM

I understand. I do not own one myself, but a friend
has a couple. The workmanship is of very high
quality, which this one does not exhibit.

Others with more experience will be along with
comments, I'm sure.........