Samurai swords are loved not only as historical objects but also as valuable pieces of their collection, martial art practitioners, and fans. To acquire one is to commit oneself to ensuring its aesthetic beauty, sharpness, and durability With proper care, katana can serve for many generations, while improper care is guaranteed to cause dulling, rusting, and other damage. Wiping a samurai sword is not just a wiping procedure, but an artistic undertaking that has been practiced for a long time.This tutorial aims at efficiently guiding the user on how to preserve his or her samurai sword through cleaning.
Why Regular Sword Cleaning is Essential
The samurai swords are made of high-quality carbon steel, which is prone to rust. Therefore, raw metal surfaces must be handled with care.Even natural skin oils can induce rusting if ignored. Although due to old age or poor maintenance, this maintenance does not always include the routine deodorization of weapons, guns, and swords, as well as compartments containing dirty, muddy, sweaty, filthy, and moisture-soaked arms. It is a must. An unsoiled sword is essential in improving the sharpness of the blades and the weapons. Even more, dirty weapons look more lethal than clean ones, which they should not.
Tools You’ll Need to Clean a Samurai Sword
Before you begin the cleaning process, ensure you have the right tools. A traditional katana cleaning kit typically includes the following items:
- Uchiko Ball: A silk ball filled with powdered stone, used to polish the blade.
- Choji Oil: A mixture of mineral oil and clove oil that protects the blade from rust.
- Nuguigami: Special rice paper designed for wiping the blade.
- Cleaning Cloth: A soft, lint-free cloth for final touch-ups.
- Mekugi-nuki: A small tool for removing the pins that secure the handle to the blade.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Your Samurai Sword
1. Preparing the Sword for Cleaning
Start by removing the blade from its scabbard (saya). Hold the katana with both hands—one on the handle (tsuka) and one on the scabbard. Carefully draw the blade, ensuring the edge is pointed away from you to avoid injury. Place the blade flat on a clean surface or hold it vertically.
2. Removing Old Oil and Debris
Your sword will likely have remnants of oil and grime from previous uses. To remove this, take your nuguigami or a soft cloth and gently wipe the entire blade, moving from the base (near the handle) to the tip. Always wipe in the direction of the blade's edge, never across, as this can damage the blade and dull its sharpness.
3. Using the Uchiko Ball for Polishing
The next step is to use the uchiko ball for polishing the blade of the sword. Merely tap the ball on the surface and length of the blade while dispensing the polishing powder in a light and straight manner. This powder enables complete removal of any remaining moisture, oil, or dirt. Although it isn’t used for the first time, this helps in cleaning up dust or dirt. The powder will be on the blade already. Reach for some more nuguigami and wipe the blade in the same manner from the base to the tip to clear the powder and polish the blade.
4. Applying Choji Oil for Protection
After cleaning and polishing, protect the blade with choji oil. Place a small amount on a soft, clean cloth and gently apply it along the entire blade. The oil serves as a protective barrier against moisture and rust. Be sure to apply a thin, even layer—extra oil can attract dust and dirt.
5. Cleaning the Sword Handle and scrubber
Though a lot of effort is put into the blade, ensure that the handle tsuka and the scabbard saya are don’t attract dirt. To get rid of any dirt and perspiration, collect a dry cloth and wipe up the handle. The saya should also be checked for any dust or moisture that may be present or built up, and therefore it should be wiped out with a dry cloth or old soft painting brush.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cleaning a Samurai Sword
Cleaning a katana requires attention to detail. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure proper care for your sword:
- Using Abrasive Materials: Never use abrasive cleaning tools like steel wool or harsh chemicals, as these can scratch the blade and cause permanent damage.
- Skipping Regular Cleaning: Even if the sword hasn’t been used recently, it should be cleaned regularly to prevent rust from forming due to environmental moisture.
- Using Too Much Oil: Overapplying oil can attract dust, dirt, and fingerprints. A thin, even layer is all that’s needed for protection.
How Often Should You Clean a Samurai Sword?
If you regularly use your sword, clean it after each session to prevent sweat, oils, and debris from damaging the blade. If it remains unused, clean and oil your katana every few months. Swords stored in humid environments may require more frequent maintenance to avoid rust.
Conclusion
Maintaining a samurai sword is a continual responsibility. Regular cleaning preserves its beauty and functionality for generations. This article guides you on proper care techniques to prevent damage and corrosion, ensuring your katana remains sharp and attractive. Invest in a glass polishing kit to maintain your sword’s intricate details.