How Do I Care a Katana?

It is essential to care for a Katana correctly in order to maintain its sharpness, beauty, and integrity.

A well-cared-for blade is a blade prepared to face any challenge.

Katana Blade Care

Since all Katana Blades (except for stainless steel and wooden blades) are not rust-proof, it’s essential to clean the blade thoroughly after each use to ensure it remains in pristine condition. For this, using a mild dish soap or just warm water is best. Following this, the blade should be carefully dried to remove any moisture. To protect the blade from corrosion and damage, it’s important to coat it with a fine layer of oil. In this regard, Japanese camellia oil is a good choice as it doesn’t damage the surface and doesn’t become sticky. Essentially, it’s also possible to use cooking oil, but it’s better to avoid this as it tends to clot and can leave an unpleasant odor.

Tip on blade oiling: Sadly, we do not have katana care oil in stock at our Katana Shop at the moment. As a temporary solution, you can also use WD-40.

A Katana Care Kit includes all the essential tools to appropriately maintain and upkeep a katana. Summarized, the following steps can assist in taking care of a katana properly:

Cleaning:
Regularly remove dirt and sweat from the blade and the handle with a soft cloth.
Oiling:
Regularly oil the blade to protect it from rust and corrosion.
Sharpening:
Have the blade sharpened by an experienced grinder to maintain its sharpness and performance.
Storage:
Use a katana cover and/or saya to protect the blade from damages when not in use. Store the katana in a dry, cool place to avoid rust and moisture. Ideally, on a katana stand.
Handling:
Handle the katana carefully and avoid dropping it to prevent damage to the blade and the handle.

It is important to note that not all katanas should be treated the same, and specific care instructions depend on the material and manufacturing method.

Katana Care Set “Kea Setto”

Step-by-Step Guide: Katana Maintenance and Care

Blade Care

Lay a sheet of rice paper on the mune (the blade’s back) and fold it in the direction of the cutting edge.
Hold the paper-covered blade carefully and wipe the blade upward only, to remove the old oil.
If necessary, use cotton or gauze soaked in gasoline or pure alcohol in the same wiping manner.
Gently tap the Uchiko (powder puff) along the blade to apply the powder.
Use a clean piece of rice paper to wipe off the powder and polish the blade.
Apply a few drops of oil along the length of each side of the blade.
Use a new piece of rice paper or a clean cotton cloth to evenly distribute the oil across the blade.
Be sure not to touch the blade again before reinserting it into the saya.

Saya Maintenance

The scabbard of your katana is coated with multiple layers of lacquer. To maintain the shine, it is sufficient to occasionally wipe the scabbard with a very soft cloth. Additionally, you should only hold the scabbard by the wrapped section to avoid fine scratches from touching the lacquered sections, which can diminish the gloss.

Storage

Store your sword always horizontally with the ha (edge) facing upwards. This prevents the oil from running down the blade surface and accumulating at the kissaki (tip). Additionally, this prevents the edge from resting on the saya, preserving the condition of both the blade and the scabbard.

Creating Your Own Custom Katana

Experience a unique piece of art with the custom swords from KATANZO. As one of the leading providers of High-Quality Samurai Swords, we offer our customers the opportunity to create their own individual katana.

With a wide selection of blades, handles, sheaths, and other accessories, you can be sure that your katana will meet your exact desires. The expertise of KATANZO and the care with which each piece is crafted not only guarantee an unparalleled appearance but also exceptional functionality.

A Custom Katana or a Custom Wakizashi is more than just a tool – it is a masterpiece. It is the result of years of research and passion, and it will captivate you. Be proud of your unique piece that you will wear with pride and respect.

Convince yourself of the quality and incomparable design of our custom swords.