Maintaining a katana: what are the proper ways to go about it?

When you own an object like the katana, it should be properly maintained to ensure good durability. This will be worth in particular to be in perfect condition, in order to be able to serve in the best conditions. For curators, the maintenance of a Japanese sword is a real philosophy. It was taught to the samurai, and they think it must be perpetuated. So what is the best way to maintain your katana?

The choice of frequency

It is not necessary to wait for a particular occasion to proceed with the maintenance of your Japanese sword. The ideal would be to do it regularly, especially to preserve the beauty of the object. Such care will allow the katana to have an always brilliant blade, and a good maintenance of its different parts. What is the recommended frequency for carrying out these various operations? Get into the habit of cleaning your Japanese sword every three to four months.

Obviously, this frequency will be more important when you live in humid areas. A monthly maintenance will be more appropriate, in order to avoid oxidation of the blade. It is very likely that humidity will be a threat to your Japanese sword in these conditions. What approach to adopt, if the katana is not simply used as a decorative object? Its cleaning is therefore imperative after each cut you make. You can also get excellent katanas just here, and have them delivered.

Mistakes not to make

A certain methodology must be respected to ensure proper maintenance of your Japanese sword. This is also the best way to make sure not to degrade it. As for cleaning products, for example, avoid those that contain harsh chemicals. Otherwise, the surface of the katana blade will have scratches. Also be careful not to use abrasives and grinding wheels to sharpen the blade of the Japanese sword. What to do in this case?

The best recommendation would be to take the katana to an experienced professional. He will know exactly the best treatment to apply so that the interview is beneficial. This rule must especially be respected, if you have one of the katanas available on https://sabre-japonais.com/collections/katana-manga. This is the best way to guarantee excellent durability.

You probably don’t know it, but you should never put your fingers on the blade of a Japanese sword. For what ? This action, which may seem trivial, will have the effect of leaving your fingerprints on the blade. The latter will then undergo condensation, which will create the environment favorable to rust. The best would then be to clean the blade of a katana with one of the following objects:

• A soft cloth;
• Cotton gloves;
• Japanese paper.

In addition, you will have to avoid certain gestures that could potentially be dangerous when cleaning your katana. Never point the edge of the blade against you during this operation. On the contrary, always make sure that it is directed outwards to avoid any risk of injury. In addition, periodic maintenance should be done away from children and pets if you have them. This precaution aims to avoid accidents that could occur.

Guarantee the durability of the katana

When you acquire a katana, the objective would be to be able to keep it for a long time in good condition. Therefore, the renewal of the remarkable oil layer on the blade is important. The function of this fatty substance is very useful, especially to prevent rust. This protective film can also be applied to blades made with stainless steel. Further, the wood present in the sheath is indirectly protected against humidity.

Do not think that this oil will always be present on the blade over time. On the contrary, it will tend to evaporate. A new application will therefore have to be made, making sure to wipe off the old layer. The use of a clean soft cloth is strongly recommended for a successful operation. Optionally, it can be in:

• Cotton ;
• Microfiber.

Classic Japanese paper is another alternative to consider for maintaining a Japanese sword. The advantage is that it greatly facilitates the operation, in addition to providing a beautiful rendering. So you can take care of your katana like a real samurai. What if you don’t have any of these accessories? All you have to do is use a disposable tissue to clean the blade. However, check that it is soft enough not to leave marks. What to do next?

Make a fold in two of the cloth, or Japanese paper. Then place it between your thumb and forefinger, to cover the blade. Make a small pressure so that the cleaning of the two faces of the blade is optimal. Bring the cloth back to the base of the blade, then work your way to the tip. For a better rendering, you could equip yourself with uchiko powder. It could be likened to chalk, and it is sold in a piece of cloth.

Give small blows with the powder ball on both sides of the blade, without forgetting its back. Using another clean cloth or paper, clean as you did before. The extra powder will be removed, then the blade will benefit from a perfect polish. Always work from the hilt to the tip of the blade, then evenly apply another coat of oil.