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Hi Guys - I am interested in a WW2 sword listed by a dealer, and he has posted several photos of the sword, including TANG. It appears to be a WW2 era Showa (manufacture) - I see what appears to be an arsenal marking, but I can't make out any of the kanji. Perhaps an arsenal mark and signature? Can anyone offer any insights? Some pics attached. I appreciate any feedback or insights you can offer up. Dan

Yes.... awesome collection!, ... but I am also hoping my display limits or keeps my collecting addiction in check

Simon - There were 12 different type 30 bayonet manufacturers and in "my book" about 6 major variants, however ... you can find 30 variations if you go by Raymond Labar's superb book (Bayonets of Japan), which is probably THE book to own if you ever get into collecting them seriously. The curved quillion is actually pre WW2 (1930s) manufacture. During the war, they went to straight ....and as the war progressed, more corners were cut with respect to handle shape, blade quality, screws used, etc... I like to collect sample small arms pieces of Imperial Japan, and since I had a few of these , I wanted a way to easily display them on the wall. Thanks for the note! Dan

Hello - fellow forum guys .... well, I'll add some noise to the dormancy .... I recently contacted a collector/woodworker named Skip Greenwade (he has a nice website) and provided a rough sketch of an Arisaka bayonet display stand. He crafted this in about 2 weeks. This photo is just before I mounted it to the wall. The felt is khaki colored and the slots are magnetic, so the bayonets remain in place rather security! I am very pleased with this work and his price is tremendously reasonable. Just sharing ...as I am very pleased with the outcome. Dan

Amazing .... thanks for sharing the photos! Dan

Hi Claudio - thanks for the post. I am interested in headgear.

Hi members - for collectors of WW2 Italian militaria, can you share the more reputable dealers online for Italian Militaria, if there are some? I don't know who to deal with that has a strong reputation. Thanks, Dan

Sorry I screwed up the photos on the post! ... but that's the Stalingrad group ... I'll post the group with Bravery medals in a moment Here is the pic of the bravery medals group I mention, but I have the research buried in one of my file boxes so I need to dig that up

Good points. I have many groups and individual awards that have been researched. One came back mentioning Kursk (bravery medal for delivering meals under fire ....and a group that mentions actions at Stalingrad (photo attached). Dan

Hello Gents - I've been away from the collecting bug for a while (new job and 4 young boys tends to do it to you..). Anyway, I am beginning my "journey" to start the path to own a L.o.H. from 1st empire period. Why start there? ...simply because I have an several LoH awards from other periods and I finally want to target the holy grail . I have some references, but am always looking to confirm/get feedback on recommendations of others on this point (helpful references) and then finally, who is a reputable dealer in French medals these days? In my youth, my primary focus was on collecting German and Soviet. Most of the LoHs that I have are were purchased from trusted friends. I apologize if my two questions are addressed in someone else's link, but if you point me in that direction I would appreciate it! Warm regards, Dan

Thanks Elmar and Claudio - Great tips! are either of these gentleman amicable to selling to the US? ...perhaps via email? Now that I have lots of kids, I frankly do not make it to Europe very often anymore ... I am looking for some specific items, so I could provide details, However ...if it is too hard, I can just work through the dealers listed, and ebay. I notice Ebay gets some nice items, but one must be very patient ... Thanks again, Dan

Thanks gents! - I appreciate the rapid response. I will check out both of these sights. Dan

Hi forum members... I have been combing the web a bit, but I am having a tough time finding a dealer of authentic WW2 Italian militaria .... someone reputable with a decent inventory. Am I correct to assume such a dealer is hard to come by, or am I overlooking someone? I am most interested in headgear and medals.. I appreciate any and all insights on this matter. regards, Dan

Neat post - thanks for sharing .. Dan