Sword Appraiser

[steve hunter]

I am looking for some of the best appraisers of Japanese swords, fittings, etc. Since the passing of Kaicho Kenneth Mack, I am without the best in this field.
Can anyone help to guide me in the right direction of someone that is honest and has a reputation for their knowledge of old swords and their values ?
I am in Pennsylvania but will travel or correspond with anyone who has knowledge that compares to Kaicho Mack.

Also looking for someone that does tsuka-maki and it's many styles with and without menuki.

Referrals would be greatly appreciated.

Steve Hunter
Buke-ryu
South Williamsport, PA

[Brian Owens]

It's a long way to travel, but I can recommend Tatsuhiko Konno Sensei, in Kirkland, Washington.

Here's his Web site: www.tokenkonnoart.com.

If he isn't doing appraisal anymore, I'm sure he can direct you to someone who is; and he can certainly help you with tsukamaki, etc.

HTH.