Question on Rust Mitigation

[Winchester]

Greetings All,

 

I have a katana that has had rust spots pop up since I purchased it a few years ago. Until now, I have just generously wiped the area with a microfiber and choji oil and it goes away. 

 

My concern is that in oiling the blade for storage recently, I noticed another area had developed (again, minor surface rust about the size of half a pencil eraser head) and am wondering 'what gives'. I have other blades that I regularly maintain and no issues with those, thankfully.

 

There is open kitae/ware spots in a few places, should I send for a polish (it is a healthy and thick blade otherwise) and risk that the open spots go deeper. Am I correct in my understanding / inference or would a polish 'reset' things so-to-speak?

 

Thanks for any advice. I would normally show a few photos but it is light rust that mostly rubs away and then comes back and I just oiled and put away the blade recently. Thank you, Brian

Edited December 23, 2024 by Winchester
typo

[Alex A]

I might take some flack for this, but for starters would stop using choji oil.

 

Aoi art don't recommend its use.

 

Maybe try a modern oil. I use express gun oil with a rust inhibitor, been using if for many years now without an issue.

 

From Aoi

 

1. Generally, Choji oil has been used to treat Japanese swords. This is a sticky vegetable oil traditionally used in cleaning swords. It promotes oxidization 

 

Treatment - Japanese Sword Shop Aoi-Art

[Stephen]

The current in Vogue oil Amazon $8

[Lewis B]

Yes, Camellia oil, branded as Tsubaki. There are a couple of species so get the one for blades. Never had any issues applying this sparingly on my swords and Japanese kitchen knives.

[PNSSHOGUN]

There are specialty Choji oils made in Japan, such as Okamura Heibei Shoten (made for over 300 years...). You can always add a few drops to Camelia oil for the best of both worlds.

[GeorgeLuucas]

That oil that Stephen recommended is what I use. 

It also comes in a spray-bottle. Which I prefer, because it's easier to use a minimal amount. The bottle should last a really long time. 

I don't like the smell of clove, and gun oil smells too... industrial? for my liking. 
Just my two cents.
Cheers,
-Sam 

[marivo]

I use this cloth for my gun. Can I use it on a antique waki?

[Lewis B]

Depends how much you value your waki

[Winchester]

I ordered the tsubaki oil that was recommended. Thanks everyone.

[marivo]

16 hours ago, Lewis B said:

Depends how much you value your waki

Is that a yes or no? 

[Lewis B]

If it was my waki and I valued it.... then no. Several tried and tested products mentioned regularly on the forum. 

[marivo]

Okay, thanks👍

[2devnul]

What about Hanwei Sword Oil? 

https://www.kultofat...ct/hanwei-sword-oil/

 

[Schneeds]

What is the climate like where the blades are stored? If you aren't having any issues with other swords it might suggest an issue with the shirasaya.  It may benefit from a cleaning. I don't think changing oils when you're already using something proper will change things. 

[Winchester]

That’s a really good point, Erik. I’ll check the shirasaya and circle back; I still feel something is amiss.

 

Re; environment: temp controlled and humidity, which is monitored at multiple points for consistency. No sudden temp changes.

[Schneeds]

I saw someone here mention once they use a rifle barrel brush for cleaning; that always seemed like a good method to me. I would get a .22 bore nylon brush and rod should the need arise. 

[Alex A]

Not saying its the case here, 

 

Some swords just have issues, not all the same. Know one gent that said that he used to have trouble with one sword in particular, with spider rust. Said he got it polished up nice, then eventually it came back.

 

Of the opinion that some swords are more susceptible to rust spots than others.