Unfortunately I no longer have one of these swords, something I now deeply regret, and I am having great difficulty finding a replacement at the price I am prepared to pay.
I am not saying they were not used in battle. It is just a feeling that many, and very fine ones with a good springy temper, do not seem specially designed for combat. There thrusting ability and the cut are equally weak when in comparison to other weapons. I have seen WW1 parade swords that were given an edge and used in the field.
This arm dagger has a blade very similar to many Takouba blades. It is very beautiful very springy and could carry a very keen edge but I have doubts as to whether it was primarily made for combat. Just in passing if anyone knows anything about the wooden chap used as a stop in the picture please feel free to pass it on.
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