Kanna Blade Identification-Can you Help?

I’m asking for your help.  I was recently asked about the blade in one of my kanna.  That question made me realize that I know nothing about the Japanese plane blades that I own.  I’m hoping that some of you may be able to give me some insight as to the who, what, when and where of these blades.

Blade #1.

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Blade #2.

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Blade #3.

img_2516

Thank you very much in advance.

Greg Merritt

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13 Responses to Kanna Blade Identification-Can you Help?

  1. bpholcombe says:

    Greg, check out Chris Hall’s forum, Craftsmanship in Wood. He has a list of blacksmiths along with their marks.

  2. Jonathan says:

    I think it says “Made by Joseph Smith, Sheffield, England”

    Then again, I may me wrong. 🙂 🙂

  3. bloksav says:

    I have forwarded the question to my Japanese speaking younger brother. Perhaps he has got an idea.
    I hope he has got the time to look into this.

    If not, I think Brian Holcombes idea is really good.

    Brgds
    Jonas

  4. Coisas EM'adeira says:

    Good luck!

  5. Brian Eve says:

    I know nothing about Japanese planes, but I think it’s great that you are going full immersion with them. I’m looking forward to seeing you in some two-toed socks!

    • Greg Merritt says:

      I am determined to get my head around the kanna and make it my plane of choice. I’m not gonna lie, it has been an uphill battle. I’m getting there though.
      LOL…I have a drawer full of two-toed socks…long story for another time…

  6. bloksav says:

    Hi Greg
    My younger brother got an answer from the Japanese plane blog writer about your blades. Here is what he writes (translated to English):

    They are probably made around Miki in Osaka by a medium-large manufacturer and not a particular blacksmith. The names are probably added later by the shop who initially sold them.

    I hope that helped a bit.

    Brgds
    Jonas

    • Greg Merritt says:

      Thank you so much Jonas for taking the time and effort. Thanks to your brother and his contact as well. I very much appreciate the information.

      This confirms my suspicions. Factory produced blades from the Miki City area. At least I don’t have to worry about making a mess of a blade made by a famous blacksmith.

      Thanks again!
      Best,
      Greg

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