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How to Polish Your Katana

The katana enjoys a reputation as one of the most finely crafted swords in the world. The true versions of these swords can take many months to produce and can be made only by expert sword smiths who call upon decades of experience. Wielded most often by the samurai warriors of feudal Japan, these swords came to be used by many medieval Asian armies and were revered for their fine craftsmanship. Maintenance of these blades also requires special skill and practice.

Things You'll Need

Cotton cloth
Sword oil
Rice paper
Powder ball
Sword cleaning kit

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a cotton cloth, sword oil, rice paper, powder ball or a sword cleaning kit that contains all of these items. Proper katana cleaning requires every single one of these items, so no substitution or skipping.
- 2
  Hold the kantana carefully by the handle with one hand, with the sharp edge facing away from you. Carefully use the rice paper to wipe away any old oil from previous cleanings. Fold the rice paper over the back end of the katana. This will allow you to clean both sides of the blade while preventing your fingers from being cut.
- 3
  Take the powder ball and lightly tap every one to two inches on the katana, making sure to coat the blade in powder. Repeat on the other side to guarantee a full finish.
- 4
  Take the rice paper and rub the powdered katana. Start on one side and then the other, always wiping toward the back of the blade and never toward the sharp front. Repeat this process until all of the powder is removed from the katana.
- 5
  Apply a small amount of sword oil to both sides of the katana blade. Only a few drops are needed, so don't overdo it. Wipe both sides with the rice paper to assure a bright shine.
- 6
  Re-sheath the blade carefully. Make sure not to touch the blade after the cleaning; otherwise you will smear the finish.

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