SMGP-176 Seppuku Tanto *SOLD

Also known as Kaiken. These Kaikens were meant for the Japanese Navy pilot which was taken for the kamikaze mission. Also these Kaikens were carried by manned suicide torpedoes. The Kaiken is hand forged and signed by a Japanese sword smith. In the past, a Kaiken was a dagger intended both for women and men. As defensive weapon or suicide weapon. The woman often received a Kaiken as a wedding gift.

This tanto was in rough shape before we had it professionally restored. The tiger pattern maple wood was remarkably well preserved and the blade showed signs of hope so we went ahead with the cost of restoration. The original white parts were made of an early form of plastic which became dry rotted and was literally falling apart. The end caps were replaced with an indestructible piano key material, and the center scabbard throat and grip shoulder were replaced with old ivory that our craftsman had from another antique project. The blade retention pin and ferrule were also replaced and upgraded, making the tanto able to be taken down for tang inspection or refitting the blade to a more ceremonial type handle and scabbard. This made the dagger literally way more durable then before and able to be handled. The pieces were mated together and hand filed to perfection for an unbelievable fit and a nice “snap” when the dagger is placed in the scabbard. The blade suffered from heavy oxidation which was removed and then lightly polished. The experienced collector will notice the hamon on the blade is still visible. The blade of coarse, does not look perfect and the polishing is obvious. We had to decide between a badly rusted blade or rust removal and preservation which gives us this polished look. The only other option was sending the blade to japan for professional regrinding by a master blade smith with a cost that would be more then the value of the dagger. The tanto was a vet bring back along with a silk meatball flag. It is unknown what island or area it was retrieved from.