How to Take Care of Swords

In the collectible world of swords, there are two divisions: functional swords and decorative swords. The functional sword is a battle-ready carbon steel sword. Often, metal workers hand forge functional swords as in days of old. Decorative swords are commonly stainless steel historic replicas or licensed fantasy swords. Both designations of swords require special care and maintenance for lifelong use and display.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Lacquer thinner or mineral spirits
• Sword oil or polish
• Micro-crystalline wax
• Silicone-coated gun/reel cloth
• Lemon oil or tung oil
• Leather paste wax
• Neatsfoot or mink oil

1. Remove factory oil or grease from the newly purchased sword with lacquer thinner. In the case of used swords, skip this step.
2. Cover blade and metal parts of your sword with sword oil or wax. Wipe with gun/reel cloth. This prevents rust and corrosion of the carbon steel sword blade by removing dust that could trap oxygen within the surface.
3. Treat wooden handles with wax or a specialty wood oil like lemon or tung oil. Coating the handles helps prevent the wood from getting dry and cracking. It also keeps moisture out.
4. Apply micro-crystalline wax or a specialty leather paste wax to your sword's leather accessories. Also use this wax on leather scabbards, sheaths, belts and even the handle covering of the sword.
5. Waterproof the scabbard, if so desired, with neatsfoot or mink oil. Apply as directed on appropriate surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Treat both functional and decorative swords as weapons. Improper use can result in injury or even death. Take care to protect others, as well as the life of your sword.
• Refrain from using the scabbard for long-term storage. Moisture can build up and rust the blade of the sword.
• Don't touch the blade of a decorative sword. The stainless steel blade is prone to corrosion from the acidic element of human skin.