Mastering the Samurai Sword. Cary Nemeroff

Yokote Latitudinal line that separates the ha (24) from the fukura (33) 36. Mitsukado Junction of the shinogi (24), ko-shinogi (38) and yokote (35) 37. Monouchi Maximum striking area of the ha (24) 38. Ko-shinogi Extension of the shinogi (28) beyond the yokote (35)

      THE SWORD MAINTENANCE KIT

1. Uchiko	Powder hammer
2. Washi	Cleaning cloth
3. Mekuginuki	Small brass hammer
4. Oil cloth	For applying oil to the samurai sword
5. Choji oil	Oil for use with the samurai sword

      An essential accompaniment to any samurai sword is the sword maintenance kit. It is a multipurpose tool that enables the user to clean the sword and dismantle it in a safe manner, without damaging the hardware or the sword’s intricate components. Like an improperly maintained aircraft that might experience mechanical failure during flight and endanger the lives of its passengers, a samurai sword that is poorly maintained might lose its functionality and put its owner at risk. Hence, it was historically imperative for the samurai that his honor- and life-preserving sword be kept in an optimal working state. Neglecting to do so was a serious matter, because it could impair the samurai’s performance and consequently result in a dishonorable death. Proper maintenance of the sword is no less important today. To ignore it is to invite serious physical injury.

      MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR GUIDELINES

      The following are guidelines for regular maintenance of the samurai sword. As a general rule, before and after every use, perform these procedures in order to achieve maximum functionality and longevity of the sword.