The Samurai Sword: A Handbook a Handbook

Although not comprehensive this is an excellent introduction to sword appreciation and understanding. After a brief consideration of the main periods of Japanese history, which shouldn't overwhelm anybody since it's a just a brief overview, the author moves on to consider the major periods of swordmaking and their history. After these two brief history chapters the author goes on to discuss the different types and styles of swords, fittings, and other info. There are detailed discussions of all the features, including blade types and details, all the fittings, especially the tsuba, or guard (which is virtually a field unto itself), plus inscriptions, lists of famous swordmakers by historical period, and much other useful and practical information. The author was possibly the most prominent sword expert living outside of Japan at the time he wrote this book. It's excellent as an introduction to the field, or as a quick reference.

This book is exactly what you need to understand the factors that determine rarity and value. It contains a comprehensive delineation of the varieties of each sword part, maker dates and places, and a good dose of relevant history to the development and use of the sword.This is not the ONLY book you need - but it should be the first.This small investment can literally save you thousands in mistaken purchases...you will quickly see why you should save your money, i.e. don't buy several $400 swords from Ebay, and rather purchase the "special" (albeit expensive) blade.There are too many hoaxers out there, and you need to visualize your purpose. Do you want a fragile 15th century relic? A modern (and very pricey) blade of Iaido practice? A WWII (and prior) collectible? What's the difference?Why be able to read the maker's mark? What difference doe it make? Do you want the master's blade, the student's blade or the machine made? Better find out the difference before you invest.Would you buy coins without a Redbook? Stamps without a Scotts'?

Yumoto's work was one of my first books on Japanese swords. Over twenty years later I still refer to it as a quick reference. While not a comprehensive reference it is nonetheless broad and nothing short of expert on the subject. Compared to more voluminous references, it is easily taken on the road while in search of these evasive art treasures.

I've studied the use of the Japanese sword for over 15 years, this was the first book I bought and still one of the best. It provides a good overview of the craft of the Japanese sword and contains information that you will not find without spending 3-4 times as much.

I was once told "If you are interested in buying a real samurai sword buy this book read it once and then read it again and again." There is probably no other book, in english, that has as much info on antique samurai blades as this book. A must for anyone interested in sword collecting or even a serious martial artist.