Katana is acknowledged as a popular Japanese sword used by Samurai warriors. Originally, this sword was intended for cutting, though people also utilized it for stabbing. The well-made katanas weren’t only a functional tool but symbolized the honor and discipline of the Samurai. Katana was initially utilized from the period of 1185 to 1333 during the period of Kamakura. Its usage was also prevalent from 1400 to 1876 at the time when Samurai were abolished in the form of a social class. Katana is referred to as a blade that has a single edge and a highly sharp point. Commonly, a katana is about 36 inches long, though shorter katanas have a similar design that ranges from sizes of 24 to 26 inches.
How can you clean a katana?
When you have a katana, you have to keep it clean and maintain it. After you use it, you should wipe it to remove any sweat, oil, or dirt. Now, if you find the blade to have become too dirty, you can utilize a water solution and mild soap to clean it. Always ensure that you have dried the blade thoroughly to prevent the formation of rust. Besides cleaning the blade, clean the tsuba and Asuka too. Always utilize a soft cloth so that you wipe down the guard and handle, and remember to remove the debris and dirt that might have accumulated in the crevices.
The way to polish a katana
To maintain your katana, you have to polish it regularly. When you have well-polished blades, they will not only look bright but also prevent the formation of rust. People commonly use a soft microfiber cloth or uchiko and a polishing powder to polish their katanas. If you use uchiko, you should apply the cloth or the powder rotationally. Additionally, you can use mild pressure to prevent damage to the blade. To maintain your blade for a long time, you ought to use a microfiber cloth as it will turn into a safer option.
Oiling the katana
If you don’t want rust to form on the blade, you should oil your katana on a regular basis. For this purpose, you should use a mineral oil or a specific sword oil. Use a soft cloth and some oil to rub the surface of the blade in an even and thin layer. Always make sure there isn’t any excess oil, and if you find it, wipe it off immediately, as too much oil attracts dirt and dust.
The process of storing a katana
If you don’t use your katana, store it properly so that the blade doesn’t get hampered and other components stay well. Ensure that you have kept your katana in the scabbard when you aren’t using it. Additionally, you should keep the scabbard devoid of debris or dirt. You can also utilize a special stand, sword bag, or wall mount to store your katana. Never keep your katana exposed to humidity or extreme temperatures, as it could cause it to rust. People living in wet or humid climates should use a dehumidifier to keep the air dry in their storage areas.