Japanese Swords

[Chris Railey]

Since my knife sales are in the toilet, I have finally slowed down enough that I may have a little time to explore Japanese Sword Making. I have always admired Japanese blades and after many years of making other blades I feel like I am at a place where I can try to learn the Japanese blade style and aesthetics. Now, I am not talking about the full on creation of Tamahagane steel and the ancient forging ways I am just talking about doing the style a little justice with my work and turning out respectable swords in more modern ways. To that end, does anybody have a suggestion on a book or two to study. I do not need as much of the spiritual content as I would like to see more modern techniques and examples. Don't worry, I am not going to grow a man bun and start wearing robes (that does not match the redneck aesthetics) I just want to learn the style and gain some experience because I admire it. Thanks