Traditional Clove Oil (100 ml)

Do you own a Katana, Wakizashi, or a high-quality European sword made of carbon steel? Then you know that rust is your greatest enemy. This Clove Oil (known in Japan as Choji oil) is the absolute foundation for preserving and protecting blades. Not only does it create a protective film on the metal that prevents access to atmospheric moisture and subsequent oxidation, but thanks to its Eugenol content, it also smells wonderful. It is precisely this specific spicy scent that is inherently linked to the ritual of sword cleaning in every dojo. With a volume of 100 ml (approx. 3.4 fl oz), this bottle will last you for many years of careful maintenance. Further product information ...

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SKU: 63011

Traditional Clove Oil for Sword Maintenance (100 ml)

Protection with the Scent of History

The base of this oil is Eugenol, an organic compound extracted from the clove tree (Eugenia caryophyllata), which is responsible for the characteristic aroma. Although clove oil is popular in folk medicine as an anaesthetic for toothaches, this product is intended exclusively for technical purposes – the preservation of cold weapons. Do not apply it to gums and do not consume it!

On the bottle, you will find the traditional characters 御刀油 (Go-tō-yu), which translates to "Oil for the Honorable Sword". This underscores its primary purpose. The oil is colourless to pale yellow and, when applied to the blade, forms a microscopic layer that protects the steel without making it sticky.

Technical Parameters

Volume 100 ml (approx. 3.4 fl oz)
Packaging Type Glass bottle with screw cap
Main Component Eugenol (clove extract)
Intended Use Preservation and corrosion protection of blades

History and Usage (Choji Oil)

In Japan, so-called Choji oil was traditionally used. Interestingly, pure clove oil could be too aggressive for steel, so historically it was mixed with a mineral base in a ratio that protected the steel. The scent of cloves also had a practical significance – a samurai could immediately tell by the smell whether the sword had been recently treated or if its maintenance had been neglected.

Instructions for Use

After cleaning the blade of old oil and dirt (e.g., using Uchiko powder), apply a few drops of clove oil to a clean cloth or rice paper. Spread it over the entire length of the blade in a thin, continuous layer. Remember that the sword must not be "bathing" in oil – a truly thin film is sufficient.

For perfect care of your sword, I recommend purchasing a complete cleaning kit, which also contains a powder ball for polishing.

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