Sorry Alan for the late reply but I am currently travelling and don't get online too often.
First, even for a prliminary assesment of the blade, much better photos will be needed. They should detail the tang, the tip and the mid-section of the blade. Also some dimmensions would be needed.
Second, the best source of information would be the "Nihonto Message Board" forum.
If your friend doesn't want to join that forum, he can send me the info and I will gladly ask for him... but that will have to wait at least another week.
Regards,
Marius
PS: To me the signature looks rather well executed that is very uncharacteristic for Chinese fakes.
PPS: And it also appears to have some hamon...