Are you still looking for the perfect Katana to add to your collection? You should read this article before you make your next sword purchase. In this article I will show you how to check your new zoro katana sword to make sure that it is of the highest quality and best value.
Many sword buyers are simply looking for a beautiful looking piece to display in their house or condo. It is not necessary to have a traditionally made, full tang sword with folded steel in this case. However, some are not willing to sacrifice the quality of the sword in order to save some money.
There are several ways to make sure that your new katana is structurally sound:
1. Hold the katana very firmly with both hands grabbing the handle. Shake the katana and make several cutting strokes going up and down and then left to right.
When doing this, pay close attention to the handle and listen for any rattling noise or loose tang.
2. Make sure that the tsuba (hand guard) is straightly mounted to your katana with no looseness.
3. Check the edge of your Katana for any nicks or dents. Defects like this are traditionally referred to as “Kizu” which means flaw. You can carefully run your finger nail down the edge which will allow you to feel any kizu that you could not see.
4. Examine the habaki or blade collar (above the guard) and make sure that it is not loose.
5. Look at the entire blade of the sword for any rust,corrosion or general discoloration (also considered Kizu).
Once the power is applied evenly use a clean piece of rice paper to carefully rub over the powder to polish the blade. Repeat until both side of the blade are polished completely. Make sure the powder has been removed. Use caution not to inhale the powder. It may be necessary to wear a breathing mask to avoid inhalation of the fine powder.
Next, apply a few drops of choji oil along both sides of the blade. Use a clean piece of rice paper to spread the oil evenly across the blade’s surface. The oil needs to be spread thinly and evenly for proper maintenance. Ensure that no excess oil will drip from the blade to the scabbard. Be careful not to touch the blade after the oil has been applied. Then replace the sword into its scabbard.
When storing your Samurai Sword Katana always place it horizontally with the ha (edge) facing up. This prevents the oil from going down the blade surface and forming a pool at the kissaki (point). Further, it prevents the edge from touching the inside of the scabbard and thus causing wear on the cutting edge, which can dull the blade.