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Comment by Kevin D on November 11, 2025 at 16:39

Swords of Imperial Japan 1868 – 1945: Cyclopedia Edition by Jim Dawson.

• Published in 2007
• Hardbound
• 8 ¾ x 11 ¼”
• 448 pages (in English).
• Over 900 full color photographs.

 

The Cyclopedia Edition is a greatly expanded revision of the 1996 sword book.  Featured swords include kyu-guntō, cavalry swords, artillery swords, the army Red Cross sword, early naval swords, youth organization swords, court swords, police bureau swords, fire service swords, railroad swords, colonial empire swords, Manchukuoan swords, and the sword pistols developed for the cavalry to add firepower to the Type 32 saber.  The best-known swords of the Japanese military, the shin-guntō and kai-guntō of WWII, are presented in over seventy photographs.  A Special Section features the gensui-tō, the 1918 sword awarded to field marshals and fleet admirals.

 

The Cyclopedia Edition draws heavily on Japanese government documents now preserved as historical archives.  Collections featured are from the United States, Japan, Australia, Israel, France, Britain, and Germany.  A decade of research and two years in actual production have resulted in the finest of references, handsomely produced. 

There were 3000 of these books printed.

 

This is a great reference book and should be in every Japanese military sword collector’s library.  This easily must be the most thorough treatment of the subject ever.

(The above description was compiled and combined from multiple sources.)

Comment by Lars on November 11, 2025 at 8:20

LoL! Nod to you brother!

Comment by Kevin D on November 11, 2025 at 5:16

LOL!

If you know me, you realize that I did not pay near that much for the book.  I very much value good information.  Especially when compiled into a good, single source.  But justifying that purchase with a willingness to part with the cash?  That is another matter.  I need to not be so stingy un that respect.

I did have to spend a fair bit on the book, but then I have had it a little bit as well.  I will certainly add full specs on it in the next day or two.

I was surprised to learn how the different officer's rank affected the sword they carried.  As well as if the sword is a 'parade sword', or a real functional one.  Being as I was never in any military, I am quite ignorant of that type of thing.

Finding a good book you don't have, is an accomplishment in and of itself!  Just  goes to show how you have managed to collect worthwhile material.  

Comment by Lars on November 10, 2025 at 22:32

Oh nice book....this one looks really interesting to me, as I have two Type 19 Kyu-Gunto swords, like what's on the cover. Of course, like all great books NOT in my library, it's $175 and up....figures.