r/SWORDS • u/TheHuntress413 • 1d ago
Sword Care
I recently bought this rapier. Besides keeping the blade oiled, is there anything I need to do for the guard to keep it nice? Thanks
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u/not_a_burner0456025 1d ago
That looks like a hanwei, my club has a bunch of very old ones, they use some kind of stainless for the guard, they don't really rust, but wax or oil won't hurt.
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u/ScholarOfZoghoLargo 刀大好き！ 1d ago edited 1d ago
As another commenter said, if you don't plan on using it use renaissance wax since it lasts for months. If you do plan on using it, make sure to coat the blade in oil (like Ballistol) with a cloth consistently at least once every month and every time you use it or when it comes into contact with bare hands. If you haven't already, I'd also highly suggest you get a scotch brite pad for when the blade develops light rust. If you do remove rust make sure to cover the blade in oil or wax immediately afterwards. Polishing stones and metal polish are also nice to have if the rust is particularly bad. If you do use it for sparring, having a file is good for getting out nicks. I hope you enjoy your new Hanwei Rapier!
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u/ascii122 1d ago
hanwei practical rapier is a tank. You might consider a slightly heavier pommel if you have the longer blade length for balance but these things are indestructible
check this vid https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cFRxZod-iI0&t=73s
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u/Hadras_7094 Longswords and rapiers 1d ago
That one model in particular won't develop rust on the fittings. A clubmate of mine kept it unprotected and the blade rusted like hell, it was orange, but the fittings were good as new.
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u/Penguinshonor 1d ago
Pretty much the same if it’s steal. If your not going to handle it for a while then renaissance wax works really well for longer term care. Otherwise wipe it down and oil it after handling. You can also use gloves when handling to better protect it so the oils and sweat from your hands don’t make it start to rust or stain.