Howard Clark L6 Bainite Katana

Howard Clark L6 Unokubi Katana

Howard Clark only made a small number of the Unokubi zukuri shape. The shape resembles that of a naginata with a bevel installed in the shinogiji effectively thinning the weight and cross section for about two thirds of the blade length. This imparts a lighter weight and shifts the balance of the sword more toward the hand. The result is a sword that would be very well suited to the Iai practitioner excercising many repetitions, yet desires a durable blade well suited for cutting practice.

It is modestly and solidly mounted in silver fuchi/kashira and menuki of peonies, antiqued silver menuki of peonies, silver seppa, and a copper tsuba with simple straight filing decorating the surface. The blade has a modest solid silver habaki and the black saya has a kojiri with black bonji decorating the end. The tsuka is tied in black silk. The mounting have a simple elegance that don not stand out ostetatiously, yet have an appealing look of their own. A sageo is not shown, but a new one will be provided and tied upon sale.

This blade also has a high shinogi which forms a diamond shaped cross section to the blade. The hamon is Howard's characteristic style in L6 swords with a very bright undulating notare and a boshi in yakitsume. The polish is in excellent condition and looks to have only been lightly used for drawing but not for cutting.

A very nice sword by a reknown maker of high performance swords ready for enjoyment in practice or display.

Measurements:

Nagasa: 69.8 cm (27 1/2 inches)

Motohaba: 3.2 cm (1 1/4 inches)

Kasane: 6.5 mm (1/4 inch)

Sakihaba: 2.1 cm (13/16 inch)

Sori: 2.2 cm (7/8 inch) Koshizori

Tsuka Length: 25 cm (9 7/8 inches)

On Consignment: $8,500.00 USD