(For Swords, Axes, Knives, Seaxes & Spearheads)

Even the fiercest Viking knew: a dull, rusty blade was no way to meet the gods — or your next adventure. Warriors throughout history took care of their weapons, and so should you.

Whether you’re wielding your blade in battle reenactments, cosplay, or simply admiring it on the wall, proper use and maintenance keeps it looking sharp and ready for many seasons to come.

Know Your Weapon

We offer a range of blades designed for different uses. Understanding what you’ve purchased is step one in caring for it properly:

• Decorative Blades
  Made from stainless steel. These are for display only — not cutting or striking. Brittle and not meant for contact use.

• Battle-Ready Blades
  Crafted from carbon steel. Suitable for controlled cutting of soft targets. Do not use it for impact against hard surfaces or other blades.

• Sport Combat Blades
  Designed for reenactment and stage combat. These feature thick edges built to withstand blade-on-blade contact — but even they wear out with time.

Note: Real warriors never blocked with the edge — that’s a movie myth. Use the flat or back of the blade to parry, and protect your edge.

Cutting Practice Tips

If you plan to cut with your blade, make sure you’re doing it right:

• Use a properly sharpened Battle-Ready blade.

• Choose safe, forgiving targets:

• Water jugs

• Cardboard tubes

• Tatami or rice mats

Don’t try to chop wood or trees — even real warriors didn’t do that. Swords aren’t axes. Striking hard, immovable targets can damage or bend your blade.

Blade Maintenance & Rust Prevention

Carbon steel needs regular care. Here’s how to keep your blade in fighting form:

After Use

• Wipe down the blade with a clean cloth to remove oils, sweat, or moisture.

• Avoid touching the blade directly — fingerprints can cause corrosion.

Oil & Protection

Keep your blade lightly oiled before storing. Recommended oils include:

• 3-in-1 oil

• Gun oil

• Synthetic knife or tool oils (with rust inhibitors)

• Refined choji oil (clove-free, in small amounts)

• Renaissance Wax (great for display pieces)

❌ Avoid: mineral oil (too thin), WD-40 (too short-term), and food-based oils (they spoil).

Storage

• Don’t store in leather sheaths long-term — leather traps moisture and speeds up rust.

• Store in a dry place, ideally in a wood-core scabbard or on a display mount.

• Oil the blade before storing.

Rust Happens — Here’s What to Do

If surface rust appears, act quickly:

• Spray WD-40 and wipe gently with a soft cloth.

• Use a fine synthetic sanding pad (like from 3M) or a rust eraser.

• Always test on a small area first — avoid scratching your finish.

Respect Your Blade

With a little care, your blade will last for generations. Whether you’re swinging steel in the shield wall or hanging it on the hearth, regular maintenance honors both the weapon and the warrior who wields it.

Be wild & free — and take care of your steel.