Facts And Fundamentals Of Japanese Swords: A Collector's Guide

This is a book by an expert in Japanese sword. The author Nobuo, was born in 1951 and had been studying and writing about Japanese swords most of his life. The book is only 182 pages, including the appendices, but it is filled with detailed facts about the Japanese sword. At Page 17, he describes, with the aid of two diagrams, the different parts and names of the sword as well as the length and curvature of the blade. For example, the file mark is indicated and the Japanese name, Yasurime is given; and the fan-shaped part of the blade is called the Kissaki. Each part of the blad is discussed in precise detail. The Kissaki, for example, includes information as to how one determines its size, and what happens when a Kissaki is poorly shaped. The types of blades and their construction is most fascinating, and that is followed by the development of the sword through the different eras in Japan. There is useful information on how to buy a Japanese sword (selection) and also on sword maintenance.The book is about a foolscap size and not heavy. The paper quality and photographs are excellent. Paul Martin’s translation seems clear and unambiguous.

Out of all the Japanese sword books in English this book is hands down one of the most useful and well written books on the subject.It contains a plethora of useful information that to my knowledge is not present in any other English language book. The book is profusely illustrated with excellent quality diagrams and photos.The book contains among other things, explanations of suriage (shortening), why swords are mumei (unsigned) and how to judge quality. All of the chapters are highly factual, well written and easy to understand. The book also dispels a great many of the common myths we so often hear.For a new collector this book contains invaluable information that would be a great help and guide on your first purchase. It may also stop you from making a very expensive mistake.For the experienced collector you are guaranteed to learn something new from this book and maybe change your way of thinking on several key subjects.This book deserves a place in every nihonto library!

Whether student expert or just curious about the Japanese katana. This book will take you to all the aspects of the form, beauty and the art of the sword of the Samurai. Great credit must be heaped on Mr Paul Martin, who translated this volume into the spoken english. Illustrations and sketches throughout the book help to clarify points made. If you are new to this subject be patient, it can get deep.Any book collection will be enhanced by the presence of this volume, one to have on your shelf!

My knowledge of the Japanese sword is limited, which is why I bought this book and it is an excellent introduction describing the features, what to look for both good and bad, all mixed with some history and opinion to give it some life.My one criticism is that although there are sketches and photographs, they are of low quality. Some high quality images of the features being described would have made the book perfect.

Lots of info. Not sure how this occurred. But I have read conflicting books. Make you're hown mind up on this one. Lots of pics, and descriptions ;)

Excellent book and quick service

great book with lots of useful pictures, clearly explained and a great addition for any collector to have on their shelf.

No. 1 book to get for all levels of experience.