Maintenance & Care
Keep your edge
Maintenance Matters
Proper maintenance keeps your weapon safe, reliable, and looking its best. Follow these simple guides to extend its lifespan and ensure it’s always ready for training or competition.
These guides cover basic maintenance only. If you are unsure whether your equipment is safe to use, stop using it and contact us.
Essential Care
Regular maintenance keeps your equipment safe, reliable, and performing at its best while extending its lifespan and preserving its appearance.
Regular maintenance helps you:
- extend the lifespan of your equipment,
- reduce the risk of accidents caused by damaged components,
- prevent rust and corrosion,
- keep your sword looking its best,
- improve hygiene by removing dirt and sweat,
- avoid equipment inspection issues at tournaments, where damaged gear may not be allowed.
Before every training session, check that:
- the crossguard is secure,
- the grip is firmly attached,
- the pommel is tight,
- the blade has no cracks,
- the edge has no dangerous burrs or deep nicks,
- the tip is intact and properly rounded.
A one-minute inspection before every training session is one of the easiest ways to prevent accidents.
Preventing Rust
Steel naturally corrodes when exposed to moisture and sweat. The salt from your hands is often enough to start rust forming.
Light surface rust (flash rust) can appear within hours after exposure to moisture. While it should be removed promptly, it is usually harmless and can usually be wiped away using a synthetic abrasive pad or fine steel wool together with a little oil.
The real concern is deep corrosion, which develops over a much longer period. This type of rust gradually eats into the steel, weakens its structure, and leaves permanent pitting. It can often be reduced using fine abrasive paper or polishing compounds, but the pitting itself cannot be completely removed.
After every training session:
- wipe the blade clean,
- remove fingerprints and moisture,
- remove any surface rust,
- apply a thin coat of protective oil.
Preventing rust is always easier than repairing the damage it can cause.
Inspecting the Blade
Inspect your blade regularly, especially after sparring.
Pay close attention to:
- burrs,
- deep nicks,
- chips,
- rolled edges,
- the condition of the tip.
Small burrs can usually be removed with a fine file or abrasive stone. Blend the repaired area smoothly into the surrounding surface.
If you notice a crack anywhere on the blade, stop using the equipment immediately.
Always check that the tip remains rounded and secure. A damaged or excessively sharp tip should be repaired before further use.
Repairing Minor Edge Damage
Small burrs and shallow nicks are normal signs of use and can usually be repaired at home.
Use a fine file or sharpening stone to carefully remove sharp edges, then smooth the repaired area with fine abrasive paper. Avoid removing more material than necessary and never create sharp transitions.
If the damage is deep, or if you suspect a crack, discontinue use and contact us for advice.
Grip Maintenance
Cord and leather grips naturally wear over time, but they can also be damaged during use by hard impacts or accidental strikes.
Small tears or loose sections can often be secured temporarily using:
- cyanoacrylate (super glue),
- contact adhesive,
- waxed thread for minor rewrapping.
These are temporary repairs only. If the grip becomes loose or uncomfortable, we recommend replacing it properly.
Restoring the Black Finish
The black finish will naturally wear over time, especially on areas that see frequent contact.
In our opinion, a worn black finish gives equipment character and develops an attractive patina that reflects its history of use. For this reason, we generally do not recommend touching up small worn areas, as home-applied cold bluing often produces uneven results and may look less natural than the original wear.
If you still wish to restore the finish, clean and degrease the surface thoroughly before applying a quality cold bluing solution. Once the finish has cured, apply a light coat of protective oil.
Repairs We Don't Recommend
Some types of damage should never be repaired at home.
Stop using your equipment if you notice:
- a cracked blade,
- a very loose crossguard,
- a very loose pommel,
- a cracked grip,
- severe blade deformation,
- any structural damage.
Improper repairs can make equipment significantly more dangerous to use.
If you are unsure whether your gear is safe, stop using it and contact us.
