Shin-gunto or army officer swords are the most common style of World War 2 Japanese swords. Most shin-guntos have blades that are machine-made which is why collectors today consider them as mere military artifacts instead of art swords. Although some of the blades of shin-guntos are hand-made, they were not forged in the traditional method.

Nonetheless there are relic swords during World War 2 that are traditionally made. These are called Gendaito or Kindaito. The blacksmiths from the Yasukuni Shrine were the most popular producers of Gendaito and Kindaito.

 

The scabbards of most shin-gunto World War 2 Japanese swords are made of metal. They are often times painted with brown, tan, navy blue or black. Others are covered with leather to provide easy grip. Most traditionally made shin-guntos have antique blades.

Aside from shin-guntos, another style of Japanese swords during the World War 2 era was kyu-gunto, also known as the Russo-Japanese swords. These are used by Cavalry, Army and Naval officers during the World War 2. They are characterized by elongated hilts that are pegged into the blade. There are swords that do not have their blades pegged into the hilts which indicate that the blades were not hand-forged.

 

Another kind of World War 2 Japanese swords are those that are specially issued to imperial occupation officers. They are also of the kyu-gunto design although a little bit modified. One special feature of these imperial swords is the emblems found on the backstrap representing the specific region where the officer is assigned.

 

Original WW2 Japanese Swords are very collectible and will add value to any collection. There are many WWI swords to choose from here so you can shop and find your favorite at Swords of the Ages.