Customer Reviews

The Japanese Sword (Japanese Arts Library)

5 star:		(9)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is a new edition of a classic book on Japanese swords. So far as I can tell, the only difference from the earlier edition is the (very nice) dustjacket.

The book includes a history of the sword, some basic information, though it's not a primer on collecting, and some good photographs of some truly excellent blades and fittings. The largest criticism I would make is that the photographs of blades don't show the subtle details, especially of the temper and "grain", which collectors are interested in. On the other hand, you can see the whole shape of the blade well in the photographs.

If you're interested in swords, this book is a must-have. Serious collectors will find it a bit simplistic and general of course, but the blades included are some of the best, which makes up for a lot. For people who just are interested by Japanese swords and want to find something out about them, this book is perfect. For the beginning collector this is good, but something like Yumoto's "Japanese Sword: A Handbook" is more important.

Just when I thought there were new books of note on Japanese swords lacking, I discovered this fabulous volume in a Tokyo book store. The content is meaningful and constructive in building on an already developed foundation of knowledge. A must for both the collector and the fortunate chance owner of a possibly valuable war souvenir. You can learn much about the care of your possession here.

This is one of the BEST books on the Japanese Sword including history, terminology, et cetera. I really don't know how anyone could have a sword collection or interest without this book. A friend bought this for me as a gift, way before I was interested in swords... now I have hundreds of books (mainly on swords), and this is certainly my favorite. Great book, GREAT illustrations and photographs, superb glossary. You certainly wont be disappointed.

The pictures in this book are stunning! A real tribute to the sword and their beauty. This is a great book for someone who is just beginning their study in nihonto, or for anyone who enjoys the awesome creations that man has achived, before the days of electricty and the power tool!

Wonderful book!

Although the title is a bit misleading, as the book also includes other edge weapons besides swords as well as their fittings, it was informative for a novice collector. The color photographs are outstanding.

This book is exactly what the title says it is. It truly is a comprehensive guide to various japanese swords detailing the types and nomenclature of the swords.

An excellent introductory book. Pictures were of high quality which was surprising since they were not digital quality.

Definitions were clear and the glossary of terms was excellent.

Very very indepth book! I wouldnt recommend it to a begginer practiconer of the japanese sword, as it is so information and text heavy it is difficult to read at times, and you may be quickly confused. However, its a great resource for anyone who owns a traditional sword, with history and care of the sword covered. It doesnt offer much in the way of how to use the sword in fighting, and other books would be better for this. That said its a necessary complement to books on sword use that can prove quite indispensible. Just don't purchase it belive it will show you sword fighting techniques realted to any discipline of kendo or ninjitsu.

This was a very interesting book...and it wasnt even for me! I bought it for my husband's birthday but I even read the whole thing because it was so neat. It was a great quality book too, nice bindings and a very sturdy construction, with a beautiful dust jacket. I only wish it had more color photos.

A perfect book if you are about to learn the basics of the samurai swords.