WWII Japanese Artillery Sword -
The Japanese Imperial Army had an artillery branch under its command. Officer's who served
in the artillery groups were issued a sword that was to be worn in the field. swords are
used primarily as status symbols. However, some of them are study enough to withstand
combat conditions.
The item featured here is a Japanese Artillery sword. As issued during World War Two.
The design of the sword was simple and elegant. The handle was a blend of wood and
metal in an ondulating pattern. The back of the metal handle has a checkered pattern
giving it a better grip and visual effect. The wood portion is smooth. A rivet is
placed about mid-point and holds the pieces together.
The pommel is rounded. It is an extension of the metal handle and integrates nicely
with the circular handguard. A locking mechanism is found at the base of the handle.
It consists of a metal spring that engages a female component on the scabbard. The
system locks automatically when the blade is in the sheath. The soldier must press
on the spring to relase it.
A word of caution - Care must be exercised when taking the sword out of the sheath.
Some people may want to force it out which can cause the locking system to break.
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This page is a recognition and identification guide for Japanese WWII edge weapons.
Multiple detailed photos of a specific sample are provided. Descriptions point
out specific points that should be noted.
One of the most commonly asked questions is "How much is my Japanese edge weapon worth?".
A price guide is included here to address this question. The value of the edge weapon is
reviewed over a period of several years. A trend can be observed. The present worth
of the items in the collector's market is illustrated.
This service is provided free of charge to the visitor/enthusiast courtesy of
MilitaryItems.com,
a company dedicated
to the preservation of military history and to providing quality military antiques and
collectibles to museums, institutions and the general public.
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The scabbard is chromed. The tip has a thin, flat, comb shape that protrudes outwardly.
A single suspension ring is attached to one side of the body.
The blade is single edge and unsharpened. The ricasso has a serial number. No other
markings are found.
After the war, the chinese Army adopted the same design as the Japanese artillery sword for
their artillery units. several of these swords have made their way back to the collector's
market. many of the Chinese swords are in near mint condition. The color of their scabbard
is different than the one used by the Japanese.
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