About Us

Initially I was just a collector of Japanese weapons. As my collection grew so did my desire to learn the way of the sword. I purchased a Gendaito Katana to use for sword practice. Cosmetically, this sword was in desperate need of restoration. Being relatively new to the subject of Nihonto, I was unable to find anybody capable of offering a restoration service in the UK. I made the decision at that point to undertake the work myself. Students at my Dojo and friends who had seen the Katana in its original state were impressed at the transformation and all commented on the quality of the workmanship.

I started receiving requests from fellow students to restore their own swords and the work grew from there.

Projects have included:

• Commissions - scratch built Tanto complete with Kozuka
• Numerous Saya restorations - including custom lacquers
• Many Tsuka re-binds and scratch built Tsuka
• Modification of Shinken
• Restoration of Koto period Naginata
• Scratch built Inro with various Maki applications

Customer Comments

• Thank you, I appreciate all your efforts. The Katana feels so much better than it did before.
• Thank you so much for your skill, born upon love for the art.
• You have done a superb job and I would like to sincerely thank you once again.
• Thank you for the work done on my sword, I was so pleased to be reunited with it and knew I wouldn't be disappointed.
• Again, many thanks for the work you have done for me. I imagine you understand what it means to me to be able to train in the traditional way again.

Pricing

With the exception of Tsuka re-binding and Yumi kits, all prices are on an individual commission basis. They will vary according to customer specification.

Please contact via e-mail enquiries@claypoleforge.co.uk with details of your requirements and a quote for the work will be returned.

N.B. Please be aware that Restoration quotes may be subject to change on inspection of the item. However, no restoration will be undertaken until new quotes have been agreed.