A How-to Guide to Oil Your Wooden Weapons
Last time we introduced how to wax your wooden weapons. In this week’s article we would like to introduce another easy way to keep your weapons protected from the elements, and that is by applying mineral oil to them. The reason we have chosen mineral oil is because it is the very easy to work with, inexpensive, and easy to get your hands on. A mineral oil finish is especially good for Jo and Bo as it leaves the surface a little bit slick, making it easy to run the weapon through your hands.
Here is what you will need to apply oil to your wooden weapon.
- Mineral oil (we recommend food grade mineral oil as it is safe to handle)
- Hand towel
- Cover to protect your working area
First thing you need to do is to remove any dirt or left-over wood dust from the surface of the weapon by running a towel over it.
Next pour some oil onto the weapon and spread it out with a towel.
Make sure you also apply it to the end of the bokken.
Let it sit until it feels dry to the touch. About 1 hour is usually enough. Then, apply another layer.
If it is a brand-new weapon repeat this process 3 to 5 times depending on the thickness of the wood.
Let the weapon dry overnight.
The next day run a towel over it to remove any excess oil, and you are done.
If you want, then you can apply a layer of wax on top for even better protection.
For how to check out the previous article.
Alternative method
If you are laying in with a pipe that can be closed in at least one end at about the size of the weapon you want to apply oil to, then you can put in your weapon and let it marinate in the oil over night. This is a great way to get it done in one easy swoop. If the pipe is see-through, it is very fun to watch the bubbles coming out of the wood as the oil enters into the cells of the wood.
As before, take it out of the oil, wipe it off and let it dry for a few hours before you use it.
★We would not suggest using vegetable oil as a substitute as it may go rancid.
We hope this article has given you what you need to take care of your wooden weapons, so you can continue to use them for a long time to come.
Keep training.
