The term "Gunto" refers to a type of military sword that was used by the Imperial Japanese Army and Imperial Japanese Navy during the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century. The word "Gunto" itself translates to "military sword" in English.

Gunto swords were mass-produced weapons introduced during the Meiji period (1868-1912) as Japan underwent modernization and adopted Western military practices. The design of the Gunto was influenced by European and American military swords, particularly the French and Prussian models.

The Gunto sword typically featured the following characteristics:

1. Blade: The blade of the Gunto was often machine-made and lacked the traditional forging techniques used in older Japanese swords like the katana. It had a straight, single-edged blade with a fuller (groove) running along its length to reduce weight and improve balance.
2. Handguard: The handguard of the Gunto sword varied depending on the specific model and time period. Early Gunto swords had a handguard resembling a Western-style basket hilt, while later models featured a simpler guard with a circular or elliptical shape.
3. Handle and Hilt: The handle of the Gunto, known as the tsuka, was typically made of wood and covered with a ray skin (same) grip. It featured a tightly wrapped cotton or silk cord (tsuka-ito) for grip and aesthetics. The pommel (kashira) and collar (fuchi) on the handle were often made of metal.
4. Scabbard: The scabbard of the Gunto sword was typically made of metal, often painted black or brown. It had a suspending ring or rings for attaching to a belt or sword belt.

Gunto swords were issued to officers and non-commissioned officers in the Japanese military and were primarily used for ceremonial and dress purposes. They were not intended for combat, as the blades were not as sturdy or sharp as traditional Japanese swords.

It's important to note that there were different variations of Gunto swords produced during different time periods and by different manufacturers. Some models featured more elaborate fittings and higher-quality blades. Today, Gunto swords are often collected as historical artifacts or as part of military memorabilia from Japan's Imperial era.