Custom Tiger Katana - Looking for a reputable Bladesmith
Jul 12, 2019 14:19:37 GMT
Post by masked on Jul 12, 2019 14:19:37 GMT
I have a very special, custom Tiger Katana.
The individual that the sword was originally made for, passed in 2010, in Afghanistan, he had left it to me in his will.
I've bought a ton of swords here through the years - This sword stands out from my other Hanwei's.
His wife had given me a certificate saying that this was made by both Paul and Ron specifically for this individual - Right before Wootz Steel became a reality. Obviously, I really don't know - He had it made in 07 when we first deployed and I didn't even know it existed until it was willed to me.
He had kids, I have kids. The certificate was lost in a move.
I'm a Firearms Manufacturer/Gunsmith so, I RELENTLESSLY oil my swords and knives. This one happens to never leave my bedside. (If you've deployed, you understand)
Unfortunately, my fiance is a neat FREAK and without my knowledge, wiped the blade free one day because it was "dirty". This was 3-4 months ago. Didn't say a word to me - Thought I'd be happy because she CLEANED it.
Our house is humid...Queue my finally taking it out to the shop and cursing myself for being late on the re-oiling and...Disaster. Queue next level meltdown.
The saya has been beaten up pretty badly - Kids bang it around.
The kissaki at some point was essentially snapped off. This was my fault years ago.
The ha and hamon are COVERED in rust.
Looking to bring this sword back to somewhat original condition. My understanding is that the Kissaki is an easy fix. The ha and hamon can be fixed by a sharpening. The Saya is my main concern.
I hear all of the time about swords being swapped out...This and that being stolen...I'm just looking for someone extremely reputable to get this done right and restore it back to where it deserves to be.
I googled swordsmiths and bladesmiths, nobody really stood out. So if anyone has any recommendations, please let me know.