About Us

Welcome to Armoury Antiques and Militaria!

 Owner Brief Bio...
 
I have been studying in Japan since a young age and have intensively studied Kōdōkan Judo, Goshin-Jutsu, Musō Shinden-Ryū, Shindō Musō-ryū and, of course Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-Ryū (天真正伝香取神道流). 
 
I am a genuine member of The Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-Ryū (Hombu, Japan) and was tutored over many years by Risuke Ōtake (大竹利典) Sensei. Ōtake Sensei was very kind and gentle and the memories of him I shall treasure forever. I shall never forget my Keppan ceremony with Ōtake Sensei and will treasure my time spent with him both in the Dojo and privately over many years. I have been a member of this most important Japanese Cultural Treasure for over 30 years. The Tenshin Shōden Katori Shintō-Ryū is the oldest surviving Japanese classical martial arts and Samurai combat school. It was founded by Iizasa Ienao in 1447 and has unbroken teachings from this time to the modern day. This is unique in Japan and indeed the World. This is the only true classical Japanese Samurai combat school with unbroken teachings in existence.
 
In addition to this, I was a member of and trained for many years at The Kenshukan Dojo (Hongō-sanchōme) under the direct tutelage of the late Danzaki Tomoaki Sensei (檀崎友彰先生) - Danzaki Sensei was a direct student of Nakayama Hakudō Sensei a very special point of note. At senior students training sessions the techniques were wildly different and far more dynamic to what is seen today. The skills, knowledge and experience that I can offer on Japanese Swords and Armour is second to none and I apply to this to our dealings in genuine Japanese arms and armour.
 
Professional Background Over 30 years professional service in:
  • HM Government
  • Intelligence Services
  • Government Armed Services
  • Royal Household
  • Houses of Parliament (Lords and Commons)
  • UAE Government and Military Services
  • Education and Training - Senior Management (QTS/ QTLS)
  • Historian

Armoury Antiques and Militaria deal with all things related to antique arms and armour and military collectables 

Armoury Antiques and Militaria are unique, in that, we have exceptional experience when dealing, owning and using antique Japanese swords and armour. The owner has been training, living and visiting Japan since the age of 11 and has unique contacts and experience there. In addition, he has been collecting and appraising Japanese swords, armour and fittings for over 35 years and has unique associations in Japan. The site is a commercial and educational website dealing in original Japanese swords, armour, fittings, artwork and worldwide militaria. We are always glad to share our knowledge and help anyone to learn about swordsmanship, swords, medals, armour and all things antique arms and armour. We always advise our clients to buy the best condition examples that they can find, yes, it may cost a little more, but in the long-run it is very sound advice. We often see on social media platforms overcleaned, restored, put together or tired items being offered by individuals - these items will never rise in value or give a return on your investment - please be warned. We are often offered these kind of items at our shop or on-line and never buy them as serious collectors and investors do not want to invest or collect such poor quality 'messed about with' examples.  

Armoury Antiques and Militaria are based at their shop in delightful Devon (on Dartmoor in fact - Hound of The Baskervilles country!). At our shop you will find it packed with genuine high quality (un-restored) antique arms and armour as well as other antiques and Objet D' Art. Clients are welcome to visit us at our shop:Armoury Antiques and Militaria, 4 The Pannier Market (Perimeter Shops), Tavistock, Devon. PL19 0AL. We are open from Tuesday to Saturday 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. We accept all major credit/ debit cards (we do not accept American Express).

The Tavistock Stannary market is a special place having been initiated by King Edward I in 1305. Tavistock is one of 3 Devonshire Stannary market towns (Tavistock, Ashburton and Chagford). You can also visit us at the many shows we attend all over the United Kingdom (please check our blog for details). We hope you enjoy our website and feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. We only have about 50% of our stock shown on our website, so do ask if you are looking for a specific item - we may well have it!

We look forward to welcoming you to our antique shop here in delightful Devon.

*Please note: We will require documentary evidence that you are over 18 years of age to comply with the current legislation when purchasing any edged weapon or antique flintlock/ percussion item.