A little old now, but this was the book that introduced Japanese swords to the post-WW2 West. Still useful, especially as a guide to inscriptions.
One of the foremost experts on the Japanese sword describes their history and appreciations in this book, with photographs and illustrations.
The 'Start here' guide to sword history
A comprehensive guide to the appreciation and appraisal of Japanese swords, complete with historical background, terms and the workmanship of the foremost schools and smiths.
An excellent book at a higher level than Yumoto, but rather expensive.
From raw steel to tempered blade, this text presents a visual account of the ancient craft of swordmaking as practiced in modern Japan.
This book takes the reader into the workshops of four of Japan's leading sword craftsmen. Each craftsman has a different role in the manufacture of a blade. Yoshindo Yoshihara, the swordsmith, begins with raw steel made in a traditional charcoal-fueled smelter and refines it by folding and forging, gradually shaping it into a sword with a hardened edge. Okisato Fujishiro then sharpens and polishes the sword with fine stones to reveal the color and texture of the steel. Metalworker Hiroshi Miyajima makes the small copper-and-gold habaki collar that fits between the blade and the scabbard. Finally, Kazuyuki Takayama carves the hilt and the scabbard out of a single piece of wood. Black-and-white photographs show every stage of the manufacture, while important information on history, metallurgy, and modern-day appraisal is presented in an extensive introduction.
Good guide to the process and to modern makers
Essential study of the wartime shin-gunto, and the earlier military or para-military swords.
Many editions and variants - later is better. Often hard to find too.
Free your mind and your ass will follow
Eishin-Ryu Iaijutsu, the contemporary approach to sword arts
Newer book, good history of the classical period Shinkage-ryu school.
Wisdom of the ancients, yadda, yadda...
Reading this book won't give you 3l33t ninja skillz overnight. But you still ought to read it anyway.
LRPer, re-enactor or martial artist from the beer and trousers
school, this is your textbook of English styles.
Wearers of the tartan miniskirt and wee badger handbag
may still find it useful.
Excellent introduction to basic knifemaking by grinding from solid.
Photos and general production could be better.
Outfitting a knifemaking shop doesn't have to cost a fortune and Wayne Goddard shows hobbyists how to do it on a budget. Following on the heels of Goddard's hot-selling how-to book, "The Wonder of Knifemaking", this new book expands on information from Goddard's popular column in Blade magazine to show knifemakers of all skill levels how to create helpful gadgets and supply their shop on a shoestring. The book is well illustrated with great photos and detailed diagrams showing the design and construction of all the tools needed to make knives. Every knifemaker will want to learn how Goddard can create or acquire knifemaking supplies at almost no cost.
Useful book for those with no workshop equipment and little experience of one.
Somewhat American in style - it's a bit like reading Popular Mechanics.
Looking for instructions in bladesmithing that'll put you on the cutting edge of the custom blade market? Then this definitive guide to forging world-class blades is for you. Written by a master bladesmith, this book tells you how to set up your forge, select your materials, fashion grips and hilts, grind edges and much more!
This book will show you how to build your own forge, equip your workshop, choose your own materials and get to work. Learn how o heat the steel, bending, twisting, folding, cutting and stretching it. Then find out how to put the perfect grind on the new blade, make your own scrimshaw, fit the best wood to the grip and slip your blade into your handmade sheath.
Superb introduction to knifemaking by forging.
Pattern-welded blades are among the most beautiful and durable creations to emerge from the bladesmith's forge. Now, Jim Hrisoulas, author of The Complete Bladesmith, reveals the secrets of this ancient craft, from the welding of the starting billet to final assembly of the completed blade. Learn basic patterns and stunning, complex designs. 8 1/2 x 11, HC, photos, illus., 120 pp.
Pattern-welded blades are among the most beautiful and durable creations to emerge from the bladesmith's forge. This book reveals the secrets of this ancient craft, from the welding of the starting billet to final assembly of the completed blade. Learn basic patterns and stunning, complex designs.
Beautiful book. Even if you'll never personally achieve this standard, it's worth reading just to appreciate other's artistry.
