Wooden Sword Designs

The wooden sword is designed for practicing various forms of martial arts, and for less rigorous hobbies, such as medieval re-enactments and dramatic plays. It is less dangerous than the real thing, and because it is often lighter, it allows for longer practice sessions while still providing a familiar weight and handling to users. The wooden practice sword is sometimes known as a "waster," and the term "cudgel" was initially used to describe it.

Composition

The composition of a wooden sword is vital. A sword made of inferior wood will break after just a few short sparring sessions. The wood itself should have been specifically selected for practice swords (some weapons are made from wood prepared for kitchen cabinets or similar fixtures, which will not last) and always be of high impact grade. Hickory is an excellent material to use for a wooden sword, while bamboo works well for Japanese Boken and similar weapons.

Features

A wooden sword design should be balanced the same way an actual steel weapon is, and handle in an identical manner. This can be tricky with a poorly made sword. You need the weapon to be lighter and yet still move the same way, or else you will pick up improper techniques during your training. Some swords embed metal weights in the blade to give it the right sense of heft, while others simply rely on superior craftsmanship. It is helpful to bring your steel weapon with you when purchasing a wooden sword, as a means of comparing it to its "stunt double."

Construction

Another key part of wooden sword design comes in the way its guard is connected to the blade. Many wooden swords simply wedge the guard into place, using a press or sealant to make sure that it stays there. Sooner or later, it is likely to come loose, especially if you practice with it regularly. A quality wooden sword will use a pin or wooden bolt to secure the guard through the blade--locking it in place no matter how many times a sparring partner whacks at it.

Care and Maintenance

Most wooden swords should be treated with linseed oil on a regular basis to keep from weakening. You should apply a coat once a month for the first year after you buy it, then once every four months after that. Make the coat thin but ensure that it covers the entire blade, and let it sit for 15 to 30 minutes before wiping away any excessive oil with a clean cloth. Allow it to sit for 24 hours afterward before using it. If splinters start to develop, you can sand them out using 100 to 120 grit sandpaper, and then apply 220 grit sandpaper to keep it smooth. You should re-oil the area when you are done. Some wooden sword owners like to apply beeswax to their weapons to make them shine. This is fine for cosmetic weapons, but you shouldn't do it with practice weapons because it does nothing to strengthen the wood.

Warning

Never use a wooden sword against a metal or steel weapon. It will break down extremely quickly. You should also avoid striking it against a metal shield or metal armor for the same reason. In addition, it is important to protect a wooden sword from the weather--rain and snow will weaken it and sun may cause it to warp. Even a little warping will ruin its usefulness as a practice weapon. Always keep your wooden sword inside, and don't leave it in a car if you expect the temperature to climb.