Had a strange visit today

[David Stifle]

I was in my shop this afternoon, it was warm for a change and I was enjoying myself. Anyway, a truck pulled into my driveway and three guys got out. normally, my visitors are people I know. These were strangers. They asked me if I was the knifemaker, and introduced themselves. I asked what I could do for them. One of them asked me if I was interested in buying a broken sword. Don't think so, I said. Well, here it is, he said.

It was a samarai sword, about a twenty inch blade and was snapped as cleanly as could be, leaving a ten or twelve inch stub. Still had all the furniture on it as well as the scabbard. We talked awhile and he asked me if I'd consider a trade. In short, I traded a hunting knife for it. After looking at it after they left, I saw there was a signature on the tang. The fact is, I'm not sure what to do with it. Value's probably ruined, and I know it needs to be re-heated. I don't have my camera with me now, but I'll post pics tomorrow.But, what do you guys think about this?


Dave

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

David,
Box it up and send it to me. I'll re-work it into two tanto and send you back one.
That isn't a joke, BTW. I would be glad to do it.

There is always a good chance that it is a modern Chinese sword, but it surely is worth taking a look at. Mei may be stating that, or it may be gimei. A clean break is unusual, and the metal showing will tell a lot about the sword.
In either case, conversion to tanto may well be a viable option.

Email me at :sapelt@cox.net or give me a call at 757-237-2552

Stacy

 

[David Stifle]

Will call. Thanks

Dave

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Update:
David called me and is bringing the sword down this Friday. From the description, it sounds like a mass produced shin-gunto tachi. The damage was caused by idiots chopping on a tree. I'll let you all know what the verdict is.
Stacy