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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.

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

Instructions

- 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.

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