Bokken care?

Question

Is it true that I can use an iron to get dents out of my oak bokken? Also what should I use to protect it, what kind of oil or such?

Answer 1

What are you hitting with it? Bokken are meant to be replaced when they become worn...that's one reason we use bokken instead of real swords to practice. Since a good bokken shouldn't run you more than $15 or so trash it and replace it. If it's got sentimental value then hang it on the wall.

Dented oak is a sign that the wood has undergone too much stress and indicates a weak spot where the bokken is likely to crack, splinter or break. All of these are bad for you and your practice partner.

A little dollop of linseed oil is fine if the wood looks dry but normal use and an ocasional wipe is all it really needs.

Answer 2

I have NEVER heard of using an iron to get a dent out of a bokken, but that doesn't mean it wouldn't work. I can't see how it would get out a dent, but it might hepl with a slight bend or warping situation...I might also suggest soaking it in water then clamping it in a vice (with a towel for protection) to get that bend out. I think I would try it on a "cheapie" bokken before using it on my $50 imported White Oak model.
As far as oil....VERY light coating- like several drops rubbed along the length every MONTH or 2 depending on weather and such. I was told WAY back when to use "tung oil". This is a very old style oil used by wookworkers and shooters for the stocks of rifles. Check local stores or eBay (eBay has everything)...
Hope this helps...

Answer 3

Vardis is correct. You should not try to repair it. The wood is pressure treated to strengthen it so if you introduce water into it and force it to swell up you are actually weakening it even more, and will most likely warp it as well. Bokken are only lightly finished, and little or no care is required. Using oils may actually cause the wood to swell and lose it's pressure treated strength. Just wipe it off and keep it stored where there is no pressure on it that might cause it to become warped.

I have used the same red oak bokken for the past 14 years and it is still in good condition, dents and all, with no signs of cracking, splintering, or warping. It has broken it's share of other bokken too.

Answer 4

Well, a few drops of water into the den, let it soak in and add a bit of heat (the iron) can swell the wood in the dent and greatly reduce the impact. A steam Iron can also help. It is an old woodworkers trick. While it will help the cosmetics of the bokken, it won't restore the strength of broken wood fibers.

I know that for my cane (combat cane) they recommend a good rub down with pure mineral oil to maintain the finish and prevent the wood from drying out.

Answer 5

i wouldn't put anything hot near it, specially since it is wood., for care, just a protective bag from a martial art retail store, such as Asian world martial arts or century martial arts. and keep it parrell to the ground, either laying it down or a even surface or get a stand for a wall. so the wood would not warp

i personally would not use an oil or lacquer,etc... if it is a good bokken it will just be sanded, that way in training when your hand are sweating, the wood will asbord it.