Samurai Sword Cleaning and Maintenance Kit in Wooden Box

Samurai Sword Cleaning and Maintenance Kit in Wooden Box

Traditional Care for Your Sword

This set contains authentic tools that are essential for the complete and correct maintenance of your Japanese sword. Each component has a specific purpose, and their proper use will ensure your blade is always in perfect condition.

Kit Contents:

• Mekugi-nuki: A small brass hammer with an integrated punch. It is used to gently tap out the bamboo pegs (mekugi) that secure the hilt (tsuka) to the tang of the blade (nakago). It is an essential tool for safely disassembling the sword for thorough cleaning.
• Uchiko: A silk-covered powder ball filled with very fine polishing stone powder (to-no-ko). It is used to remove old oil and impurities from the blade and to give it a fine polish.
• Choji Oil: Traditional clove oil in a bottle. After cleaning, it is applied in a thin layer to the blade to protect it from moisture and prevent rust.
• Cleaning Cloth: A soft cloth for applying oil and for the final polishing of the blade.
• Wooden Box: Everything is stored in a practical wooden box that protects the kit and keeps it organised.

The Ritual of Sword Maintenance

In Japan, sword care was not merely a mechanical task but a deeply spiritual ritual known as Teire. The samurai believed that a soul (kami) resided in his katana and that by cleaning it, he showed respect to the sword and his ancestors. This process was a form of meditation that strengthened the bond between the warrior and his weapon. Regular care not only protected the sword from damage but also symbolized the purification of the warrior's spirit and his readiness for battle. With this kit, you too can immerse yourself in this ancient tradition.

How to Properly Care for Your Samurai Sword

WARNING: If your sword is sharp, exercise extreme caution during handling to avoid serious injury!

1. First, use a piece of soft rice paper or a soft cloth to carefully wipe the old oil and dust from the blade. Always move from the hilt (habaki) towards the tip (kissaki).
2. Next, take the Uchiko and gently tap it along the length of the blade to apply a thin layer of powder.
3. With a clean cloth or rice paper, carefully wipe off the powder, again moving from the hilt towards the tip. This will remove any remaining impurities and polish the surface.
4. Apply a few drops of Choji oil to another clean, soft cloth and spread it evenly over the entire surface of the blade in a very thin film.
5. Only disassemble the hilt using the Mekugi-nuki if it is absolutely necessary for a deep clean of the tang (nakago) and if you are experienced in this procedure.

What to Avoid

• Never touch the blade with your bare hands. The sweat and oils from your skin are corrosive and can cause rust to form quickly.
• Do not use modern abrasive pastes, steel wool, or harsh chemical cleaners. You could permanently damage the blade's surface.
• Do not leave a thick layer of oil on the blade, as it will attract dust and dirt.
• Store the sword in a dry environment, ideally in its scabbard (saya).

Please note: The wooden box serves primarily as protective packaging for transporting the product and is included free of charge. Any damage to it during transit is therefore not grounds for a complaint.