The katana has been much more than a simple weapon: it is a symbol of honor and skill, a tradition that dates back to the samurai era in Japan.
Each sword is unique, and its veneration lies not only in its beauty, but also in its functionality and the profound respect it deserves. For those of you privileged enough to own one, it's well known that its aesthetics and meaning go beyond the material, yet this possession comes with a great responsibility.
Proper care is an art in itself, so we invite you to discover how to keep your katana in perfect condition, ensuring both its longevity and your safety.
Cleaning the Katana
To preserve the integrity of a katana, a regular cleaning routine is necessary. If it is used, it is essential to clean it immediately afterward to ensure there are no traces of moisture or dirt that could damage the blade. Otherwise, it is recommended to do so approximately every three months.
Ideally, you should use a katana cleaning kit to remove both old oil and any residue from the blade. You can do a superficial cleaning (just the blade) or a thorough cleaning by disassembling the katana.
In addition, it is necessary to re-oil the blade after use and, if not in use, at least once a month.
To disassemble the katana, unscrew the top of the hammer included in the cleaning kit and use it to push the wooden (or bamboo) pins, resting one end on them and striking the other with the aforementioned hammer. (This tool can be replaced with a small, flat piece to prevent it from digging into the pin and simply pushing it in, and another instrument that can be used to strike it.)
Once the two pins are removed, the handle can be removed by pulling it back while using the guard to gently push in the opposite direction, taking care not to catch or touch the blade. The consecutive sections wedged behind the handle can then be removed.
To clean it, if there is oil on the blade, first wipe it with a cloth to remove it. Then, using an Uchiko ball, a small bag held by a stick, containing a special powder for gentle polishing and residue removal, begin to gently tap the blade, holding it by the stick, so that the powder spreads throughout.
Once it has been spread over the entire blade, take a piece of rice paper (although it can be replaced by some other paper) and pass it over the blade, folded on the part of it that is not sharp, with uniform movements, always from the part of the handle towards the tip.
Afterwards, you can oil it. The cleaning kit comes with a special vegetable oil, but other oils can also work, preferably ones that aren't too thin.
Place a small amount of this on a microfiber cloth and then spread it over the blade, from the beginning to the tip, using careful movements. You can spread it from the dull area toward the tip, leaving an even, not too heavy layer.
To reassemble it, simply replace the parts in the reverse order in which they were removed. The tang (the part that extends from the blade and fits into the handle) must be fully seated to allow the pins to be inserted.
Disassembling it allows you to access the entire blade, and with the parts separated, you can see that they are free of dust or other residue. However, while it is necessary to clean it after each use and periodically for maintenance, as well as when oiling it, it is not necessary to disassemble it every time, and the relevant care can be performed on the blade without this need.
Humidity can cause rust, while impurities can damage the steel, which is why proper maintenance is so important. It's also essential to make sure you never touch the blade with your hands, as the natural oils in your skin can damage the surface of the sword, and a careless movement can cause deep wounds. It's recommended to always wear gloves and a cotton or silk cloth.
On the other hand, cleaning the scabbard, which is generally made of wood or leather, should be done with a dry cloth, avoiding chemicals that could damage the finish.
Cleaning Kit
They usually include:
Choji oil or vegetable oil.
A ball of uchiko
A brass hammer
Cleaning cloths (microfiber and rice paper)
Some include replacement pins (bamboo or wooden pegs)
Location and Storage
The place where you store a katana is crucial for its preservation. Ideally, choose a spot away from direct sunlight and without sudden temperature changes. Also, avoid excessive humidity and make sure the environment isn't too dry, and keep it where it's not at risk of falling.
It's common to use a vertical stand to display it, or place it on a soft surface, such as cotton cloth, to prevent scratching. If you decide to store it in its scabbard, make sure the blade is completely dry first.
It is advisable to always leave the edge facing upwards, so that if any excess oil remains on it, it drains away from it.
Caring for a katana isn't just a duty; it's a commitment to its legacy and value. A way to honor the history and craftsmanship behind each blade.
By following these precautions, you not only protect your investment, but you also become a custodian of a cultural heritage that deserves to be preserved.
Would you like to see our functional katanas? You can do so here .
You can also find a video about sword preservation here .
