Japanese Militaria at Castle-Thunder.com

[gwsiii]

Here are two artillery swords, what I consider early (serial number) and what I consider late (no serial number). Anyone got anything to add?

Update:
Dates courtesy of Edokko are: Meiji 20 (1887) on the wooden handled one (left) and Meiji 25 (1892) on the brass handled one (right).

One of the prevailing theories (due to overlap in dates) is that Brass handles were for officers and wooden handles for lesser ranks. From examining these two, I'd suggest that the brass one is in original condition with a Meiji 25 date and other markings lightly stamped, and the wooden handled one is Arsenal reworked and refinished with it's Meiji 20 date and markings re-stamped at time of rework, similar to markings and finish on early Type 26 revolvers that have been reworked (making them much deeper). I've got nothing to base this on other than looking at the two and comparing the obvious features and markings. On a side note, I have seen two other wooden handled artillery swords in similar condition with slightly oversized rubberized canvas frogs like this on them, and similarly not so nicely finished on the metal portions of the grip.




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[seinen]

I once owned a third variant. The blade was unmarked, except for a small kanji character 検 (ken), translating "inspection" or "test." The blade had no serial number. The blade had a wooden handle, like the one shown in your photo.

C/

[Bushido101]

I don't know a great deal about some japanese swords, but I sure wish I could find one of those.

[arisakadogs]

The one is marked Meiji 20 (1887) The other is Meiji 15 (I think)
Nice swords!
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[gwsiii]

Adogs, thanks, I've been meaning to get back to this and post the dates. Edokko confirmed the dates as Meiji 20 on the wood handled one, and Meiji 25 on the brass handled one. I guess I need one like Seinen had now. Trey
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I didn't pay to much for that old Arisaka, I just bought it a little bit too soon!

[seinen]

[Edokko]

[gwsiii]

Edokko, appreciate the initial translation and update with the explanation of the kanji!

I've since found an un-dated one without a scabbard. I've found a place that might make one. I'll post pictures this weekend. Trey
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I didn't pay to much for that old Arisaka, I just bought it a little bit too soon!