LINKS

Masamune Sword Shop
Michael Christianson

Mike is my polishing "mentor". I call it an apprenticeship, and for all intensive purposes it is, but we both look upon my frequency at his shop as a friendly exchange of his information and experiences to me, for whatever I can do for him, be it work, minding the shop, a sale for him, or just a few laughs. Many days I have gone to polish, and instead had him hand me a sword and say, "Mmm-mm-MMM, look at this sword/polish", or "tell me what you think of this". Both of which are valuable lessons in polishing, without touching stones at all. His kindness, patience, and friendship leave me to thank "Okami-sama" for placing us in such close proximity. He always has a fine selection of swords and related art. He is a fantastic polisher, and his lead-time is very long.

Morgan Valley Forge
Howard Clark

Howard Clark is a very talented and respected blade smith. His skill continues to amaze all that see his work. He calls his swords "Japanese Styled" and rightfully so, because they are his work, and he is far from Japanese. He takes the opportunity to learn from Japanese sword smiths, but his swords are for the most part so "out of the box" metallurgically speaking that they are at a glance unmistakably his. His motive is to create the best sword possible, and if it isn't a good weapon first, then it's a worthless second. His heat treating methods produce fantastic activity in some with outstanding performance, to subtle (if any) activity with unparalleled performance, depending on the material. Howard smiths under the name "Dai Mimi", or Big Ear. Go to his site for the explanation, it's logical and humorous, just like Howard.

Bushido Sword Shop
Robert Benson

The instructor to Mr. Christianson. Mr. Benson is one of the best in the business. I dream of the day I can make a polish look even close to his. He is very well respected for his skill and knowledge. He is one of the first non-Japanese to learn Togi, and the first to win an award for it in competition in Japan. Mr. Benson apprenticed under a few different instructors in Japan including Onno Kokei Sensei, a Polisher elevated to National Living Treasure. He closed his shop in Honolulu a few years ago, but his website is alive and well. He is the first choice anyone should consider when seeking a top polish for a special sword. If you are looking for good swords or good polishes, this is a man to see. Lead times on polishes are long, but absolutely worth the wait and the dollars. Lead times vary, so best inquired about with him.

Andy Quirt

Andy Quirt has been involved with Japanese Swords for over 30 years. He was instrumental in the formation of the American Branch of the NBTHK, is on the board of advisors, is among some of the best and most knowledgeable, and always has fine swords and fittings available. I recommend him highly as one of the best sources for fine art swords and fittings.

Copyright © 2005 by Ted Tenold. Duplication or copying prohibited without permission.