Blade Care and Warranty Information

David Hesser's life's work is creating unique edged weapons that are tools for personal awareness and empowerment.  This work is designed to last many years given proper care.  The following guidelines will help you keep your blade in the same condition as the day you received it.

Contents of this page:
Oiling the Blade
Polishing
Wood handles and sheaths
Leather sheaths
Sharpening
Guarantee

Oiling the Blade.  I forge blades from high-carbon steel that produces and holds a very keen edge.  To keep the blade from rusting, it is wise to keep fingerprints off the steel, and wipe the blade down with a thin coat of blade oil (refined clove oil) after it has been handled or used.

Never re-sheath a wet or dirty blade.  For long-term storage, oil the blade down and wrap in a cotton cloth separate from the sheath.  It is a good idea to periodically check the steel, especially after extremes in temperature or humidity.

I obtain oil from Fred Lohman of Portland, Oregon.  He can be reached at (503) 282-4567.  Fred Lohman also has a web site: http://www.japanese-swords.com/.  If no clove oil is available, gun oil or other light oil can be used to protect the steel.  Heavier oils will build-up over time and should be avoided.

Polishing.  If the blade starts to tarnish or rust, it should be polished immediately.  I use Flitz metal polish by applying a small amount of the paste to the blade and rubbing with a cloth.  The polish will turn dark and can then be wiped off the blade.  Repeat this step as needed to bring back the original shine.  Consult me if you have serious rust problems.  The metal fittings can be polished the same way; avoid getting Flitz on the wood or any gemstones.

Wood handles and sheaths.  I use durable hardwoods that resist cracking, but all wood dries out with age and may fade from direct sunlight.  Oiling the wood from time to time (or after being handled a lot) with a lemon-oil furniture polish helps keep the wood protected.

Leather sheaths.  Leather is generally easy to care for.  I use Neatsfoot oil, available from Tandy Leather, to keep sheaths in good condition.  The leather is lightly wiped down with the oil, and then buffed with a soft cloth.  Shoe polish can be used to cover nicks or scratches that occur on the surface.  Do not store the blade long-term in the leather sheath.

Sharpening.  The high carbon steel of your blade should hold an edge for a very long time.  Most of the time a leather strop is all that is needed to restore the edge after use.  If the blade needs more work, consult an experienced knife sharpener that uses quality materials.  Incorrect sharpening can leave scratches along the blade that are very difficult to remove.

Guarantee.  I guarantee all my pieces against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from date of purchase.  Misuse or neglect voids the warranty.  I pride myself on excellent craftsmanship and want to make certain you are pleased with your blade.  Should you have any problems after the first year, I will work with you to provide the service you require.