[Help] Sword maintenance

[Morell]

Is anyone here experienced with keeping a blade or a knife that is not stainless steel? I'm considering buying a sharp real blade for practice. (legally it's okay, I don't need any papers or approval) and as I'm researching it, I figured out that it's not a thing to just stay unnoticed for a long time. It needs maintenance to prevent rust. I want to ask for some recommendation for oil to use, as well as some tips for how often to replace oil. Sharpening is pain and I'm miserable, but that I should be able to handle or commission someone around... though I might not need to if I won't train cutting.

But since the blade is not a cheap "toy," better to have some good know-how before buying. I don't want to look at rusty sword in few years. That would be sad.

 

[HellenaHex]

You should use mineral oil or Choji oil. Choji oil is mineral oil with a small amount of clove oil in it for scent. In Blacksmithing it’s what I personally use and it’s also what other serious blade enthusiast and blacksmiths I know prefer. It’s the best in my opinion because it won’t go rancid and it won’t damage the blade. Sewing machine oil can work but avoid gun oil because a lot of them come with cleaning agents in them that will damage your blade. You can find proper cleaning techniques online. It’s pretty easy and worthwhile for maintaining your blade.

 

[Morell]

Thank you! Means a lot.

Post automatically merged: Sunday at 9:06 AM

How often should I oil the blade?

 

[HellenaHex]

You should replace the mineral oil on your sword every 2-3 months for storage, but more often if you actively use it. For high humidity environments you should oil your sword monthly or even more frequently if it’s used frequently. If you are handling it often it’s best to clean and oil it after each use to protect against finger prints and rust. Sorry I tried to add this to my original reply but my pet decided to be insane and I had to stop him from jumping off of something.

 

[Morell]

Makes sense. Thanks.

 

[Morell]

Okay, seems like all needed is available and not that costly. Great. Now I just have to find proper rhythm. I use moon phases in occult, so now I have to think which occult phase will be right for maintenance of the blade.

 

[Kepler]

It's about your mythic correspondences and materials, but if I may offer an astronomical picture to consider for scheduling from my calendar.

Nov 21,2025. Mars, Moon(waxing), conjunct Antares.

The image is from a latitude near the Arctic Circle where the ecliptic goes below the horizon. A seasonal occurrence for hyperphysical correspondence a physical object may be imbued with at consecration. Maintenance can be related to the star, planets involved and personal usage related to initial observances.

 

[Morell]

It's about your mythic correspondences and materials, but if I may offer an astronomical picture to consider for scheduling from my calendar.

Nov 21,2025. Mars, Moon(waxing), conjunct Antares.

The image is from a latitude near the Arctic Circle where the ecliptic goes below the horizon. A seasonal occurrence for hyperphysical correspondence a physical object may be imbued with at consecration. Maintenance can be related to the star, planets involved and personal usage related to initial observances.

That is fascinating idea. I have to write it down. I plan to buy blade next spring, (I have some secret plans) but this is fascinating idea. I will surely look into it. Thanks!