Is this a Tanto?

[katana]

Originally Posted by fernando

Don't despair Andy, specially if you didn't pay much for it .
You will end up learning something out of this; the world of Japanese swords is a vast universe, including superb examples that sell for many thousands of dollars, but that is not necessarily the issue here.
I notice that the peg ( mekugi ) that holds the handle to the tang hole is missing; check if there is a real tang with such hole ( not the continuation of an adapted broken blade ) and if it has the signature ( mark ) of the maker.
The handle is real ... a modest one, with the ray skin wraped by canvas strips and iron washers in between, instead of the traditional ornaments (menuki); such is a typical economic version, made in a hurry to equip the Tatsuma rebels, but still a legitimate one (see my example picture attached).
I also bought this in a junk condition, but the money i paid for it versus the opportunity to learn about this area, was well worth it.
If you are interested in developing your knowledge in these things, you may start by consulting Richard Stein's comprehensive web site, with a mirror in this Forum resource site
Fernando

Well said Fernando,
my lack of knowledge does not allow me to comment with 'authority' on this Tanto but any weapon made for use, whether 'made to order' or composed of 're-cycled' parts still has legitimate 'status' in my 'book'.
I actually thought it strange that a washer was used as the menuki.....afterall if it was made to deceive the maker would surely use something more desirable ..and not use a humble washer... suggesting (to me) some sort of authenticity....but what do I know Andy, if I was you I would 'hang on to it'.

Not all weapons were high status, craftsman made items but their function was the same to protect your country / tribe / family or to attack another.

Regards David