These instruments are NOT toys. The use of these instruments requires the training and supervision of a qualified instructor in sword use, fight choreography, or fencing, as appropriate. The use of these instruments in ANY other form (i.e. chopping trees down in the backyard, swinging carelessly, etc.) can result in severe injury to the user and to the instrument, and such use voids any and all warrantees by The Army Traders. If you are not qualified, DO NOT attempt to use these instruments before securing qualified instruction. Owning an instrument such as this carries with it a responsibility to gain the instruction needed to become proficient and qualified in its use. Users should contact a qualified instructor to receive proper training. Proper use is not as easy as it appears and books and/or videos do NOT provide the necessary training. The Army Traders and its employees assume no responsibility for injury, damage, or loss incurred by use of these instruments. We cannot stress too strongly that, without exception, the user of these instruments must get the proper training to insure their own safety and the safety of others.

Many of our blades are made of high carbon steel and need care to keep them rust free. Applying oil on the blade is the most popular practice today. There are two types of oil one can use: natural or synthetic. Natural oils like mineral oil, camellia and clove oils are very good. Silicone, which normally comes in a spray can is an excellent synthetic oil and we highly recommend it. To oil the blade, first clean it with cloth or a paper towel. Then apply the oil leaving only a thin film. This procedure should be repeated every 1 to 6 months depending on the storage area and humidity. A humid climate will require more frequent cleaning. Minimize touching the blade. Acids from the fingers etch carbon steel. For long term storage, keep or display your blade out of the leather sheath. For swords in wood scabbards, leave them inside to prevent the scabbard from warping. Wooden parts of the sword, such as the handle and the scabbard can be protected by lacquering, varnishing, or waxing. Furniture lemon oil is good for cleaning the wood.

Do NOT bang your sword against another sword in a theatricla-style duel. Do NOT bang your sword against any hard object to test its strength or the 'sound' of the steel as it hits a hard object. In fact, do NOT strike your sword against ANY object - unless you are a trained professional in the art of sword fighting. No matter how tough or strong the steel is in any sword, it will nick or break when struck against something equally hard or an a stronger force object.