One often hears people commenting about the presence of a child in every man and it in fact do get reflected at times under various circumstances. However, by all probable means it gets most clearly articulated when it comes to weapons and their use and applications. Just like a child with his first toy gun or bursting his maiden cracker during celebrations, even grown ups seem to draw equal amounts of delight from holding a magnum .44 or swishing a switchblade knife. Many attribute this trend to the agencies of popular culture like movies and its tendency to project them as what can only be described as cool. If that is indeed the case, perhaps nothing comes near to the fantasy, adventure or romance of that of a Samurai sword which has captured the imaginations of millions round the globe with its sheer elegance, style and panache.

Samurai swords which are actually called ‘Katana’ have been a part of the Japanese tradition and culture for hundreds of years and have emerged as a symbol of their heritage rather than being a mere piece of tool for self defense. As a matter of fact, these swords are not and have never been a commercially produced and marketed factory product but hand made in a most complicated process by only few highly skilled craftsmen in certain parts of the country. The forging procedure of a Katana involves different complex steps and includes various specific components. The swords are in fact made up of a particular variety of steel made in Japan known as Tamahagane and it undergoes an array of processes of heating, cooling, curving using various catalysts and agents to finally achieve the greatness and enduring qualities of a true Samurai sword. However, amidst all these discussions about the sword, one must not neglect or ignore the fact about the care and maintenance efforts that are required to be devoted towards a Katana in order to keep it in the best of conditions. One of the first and foremost things that an individual must think of while taking care of a Samurai sword is the fact that a lot of the sword’s condition depends upon the way it is stored.

Although it is always recommended to keep the sword in a protected place away from the atmospheric erosive elements such as heat or moisture, one must make it a point to bring it out from time to time so as to prevent the attack of rust or mold. Moreover, the sword is also required to be cleaned with certain specific agents such as oil, wax based cleansing agents, etc. These maintenance steps ensure that the sword does not loose its polish which it is known for. The oiling process of the sword should be followed by powdering the blade and then lightly wiping it off. One must remember not to touch the blade by hand as the moisture from the palm or the fingers can lead to the rusting of the blade. These minute yet essential steps will guarantee that the Katana is always ready for combat with a shining blade and a sharp edge.

Tags: sword care, sword maintenance, Swords