The blade is forged, folded and clay tempered in the traditional manner using tamahagane steel, and is signed "Bishu Osafune Sukesada Saku"(Sukesada of Osafune village in the Bishu Province Made) and dated "Tenbun 17, Hachi Gatsu Hi" (A day in the eighth month of the Tenbun Era (1548)). 
 
The mounts are Tachi style, and are of those used by samurai, and were likely fitted late in the war when materials were too scarce to make the army sanctioned koshirae.  The Kabutogane is that of those used by the army, which has been fitted over the top of the original kabutogane, and appears to be of period.  It has also been fitted with a Family Mon, that has been vandalized to obscure its origin.  This was often done by the officer so that upon surrender, it would lessen the shame upon the family name. 

Bishu Osafune Sukesada Saku was a lineage of sword smiths working from the late 1400's to late 1500's.  They were known for custom and mass produced swords during the Sengoku Jidai, or Warring States Period.  Often known for their toughness and sharpness in battle, there were many Gimei (fake Signatures) made in an attempt to cash in on the good name.  
 
 
Blade Length : 65.5cm
Overall Length : 95cm