The next step after reading Yumoto's book for collectors, 3 Jun 1998

The pluses are the incredible depth of research and information. Nagayama details all five priciple schools as well as the common traits and outstanding smiths of the schools.

The only downside is the lack of full color (or even b/w for that matter)picures of the blades and styles he is talking about. However, the drawings do well to illustrate the style. I just would have prefered to see actual blades since that is what I would be looking for as a collecter.

Overall- a very good read - Nagayama gives a great history of the development of the Nihoto.

As a reference tool, the book is not well set up for quick access, but does provide the information needed if you mark the various pages.

Basically more detailed that Yumoto's book and the next step for the collector in his study of Nihonto.

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