Nihonto Collection Software for Japanese Sword Collectors

Q: Does NM Collector use authentic Japanese sword terminology? A: Yes. The nihonto template includes authentic Japanese terminology for all critical fields: mei (signature), yasuri-me (file marks), nakago (tang), hamon (temper line), hada (grain), ji (surface), boshi (tip temper pattern), and suguta (overall shape). The software respects the traditional terminology that serious nihonto collectors use, not anglicized substitutes.

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Q: Can I track NBTHK papers and other authentication documents? A: Absolutely. Use the Notes or Documents tabs to track Nihon Bijutsu Token Hozon Kyokai (NBTHK) papers, NTHK documentation, or other authentication certificates. Record paper levels (Hozon, Tokubetsu Hozon, Juyo), attribution details from papers, and document any restoration history. Link scanned copies of papers directly to each sword record.

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Q: How do I document mei (signatures) and attribution? A: The Mei field records the signature as it appears on the nakago. The Maker field tracks the attributed smith, even for unsigned blades. Additional fields for Period, Province, and School allow proper attribution documentation. This is essential for swords where attribution comes from NBTHK papers rather than from a clear mei.

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Q: Can I track blade measurements in traditional Japanese units? A: The template includes dedicated fields for nagasa (blade length), nakago length, and sori (curvature). You can record measurements in traditional Japanese units (shaku, sun, bu) or modern metric. The software doesn't enforce specific units, allowing you to document measurements exactly as they appear on NBTHK papers or your own measurements.

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Q: Is my nihonto collection data private and secure? A: Yes. NM Collector stores everything locally with zero cloud upload. Given the high value of authentic nihonto and the detailed provenance information involved, privacy is critical. Your collection details, authentication records, and valuations remain completely under your control on your own devices.

Q: Can I use NM Collector to verify purchases at sword shows? A: Definitely. NM Collector works completely offline, so you can reference your collection at shows without internet. Check what makers or schools you already own, verify you're not duplicating existing pieces, and compare hamon types or other features against your existing collection. Add new acquisitions immediately with initial photographs and update details later.

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Q: How do I document restoration and polishing history? A: The Maintenance Log tab allows you to track polishing work, habaki fitting, handle restoration, or other conservation efforts. Document who performed the work, when it was completed, and costs involved. This maintenance history is important for nihonto where modern professional polishing is part of proper preservation.

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Q: Can NM Collector handle tanto, wakizashi, and katana in one collection? A: Yes. Use the Type field to categorize by sword type (katana, wakizashi, tanto, naginata, yari, etc.). Filter and report on specific types, or view your entire collection together. The template works for all traditional Japanese blades regardless of size or mounting style.