Estonian Defence Forces swords and dagger
MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONS
General
This manual is based on the recommendations of the manufacturer (Weyersberg, Kirschbaum & Cie).

Estonian Defence Forces swords and dagger (hereinafter referred to as the weapon) are hand-crafted.

The blade of the weapon is forged from stainless steel and nickel-plated. The blade is hand-decorated using traditional acid-etch technique.

The weapon's hand guard is made of brass. All gold-coloured parts are plated with 24 carat gold.

The scabbard of the Army Officer Sword is made of metal and nickel-plated. The scabbard of the Navy Officer Sword and the Air Officer Dagger are made of leather with gilded elements. The scabbard of the Non-Commissioned Officer Sword is made of black matted metal.

  • After each use, the  weapon and scabbard should be wiped clean with a clean, dry cloth, removing all fingerprints and sweat.
  • If the weapon gets wet, dry it with a soft, dry cloth until all moisture has been removed. 
  • Do not sheath the weapon instantly after wiping the blade dry. The inside of the scabbard may also be wet and needs to dry in open air for some time.
  • The weapon must be regularly maintained by wiping it with a clean, dry cloth and lubricating the blade. The scabbard must also be maintained.
  • The blade of the weapon must be maintained like a firearm: use neutral weapon oil or grease for regular lubrication.
  • In case of long-term storage (incl. presentation), we recommend not to keep the weapon in the scabbard.
  • When cleaning and polishing metal parts, follow the manufacturer's recommendations below to avoid damaging them.

General - metal components
  • Acids from fingerprints can react with metals and discolour metal components over time.
  • Salts and other air contaminants (e.g. formaldehydes from carpets, etc.) can collect on metal surfaces over time and can also cause discolouration.
  • Water or humidity can affect all parts of the weapon. Weapon should be kept away from wet or humid conditions. In case the weapon gets wet, please dry it properly by using a soft, dry cloth.
  • Periodically, wipe your weapon with a soft, dry cloth. We recommend monthly for harsh environments (e.g. high humidity, proximity to sea air, cities with heavy smog etc.) and every few months for less harsh environments. Do not use any chemical based cleaners.
  • Remove fingerprints and other oil marks with a soft, dry cloth.
  • The soft side of the manufacturer's fabric sword bag can be used as a cleaning cloth.

Gold-plated components
  • Gold is a very soft metal. Rubbing or polishing gold-plated materials will take off the gold–plating.
  • Do not use abrasive metal polishes or metal wool on any gold-coloured part.
  • Use a soft dry cloth and common glass cleaner to remove any discolourations.
  • Use the abrasive jewellers cloth sparingly, to remove any discolourations and avoid rubbing off the gold-plating.

Blades Stainless steel and nickel plated carbon steel blades
  • Discolourations or minor scratches can be removed with a jewellers cloth or a mild metal polish like silver polish.
  • Remove all polish residue with a final wipe of a soft, dry cloth. 
  • Never use heavy abrasive polishes, scouring pads, or metal wool as they will destroy the polished finish of the blade.
  • Avoid contact with acidic or alkaline substances as either may chemically react with metals in the stainless steel.

High carbon steel blades
  • High carbon steel that is not protected by a nickel layer, grease or oil, will eventually rust.
  • You need to maintain the blade like a rifle, with gun oil or grease.
  • Remove fingerprints instantly.
  • Do not store blade in a steel scabbard for a long time, especially in humid environment.
  • Store in dry area and apply oil or grease regularly, remove old grease.

Scabbard
  • Leather scabbards should only require an occasional wipe with a cloth moistened with a clear household silicon spray polish.
  • Scuff marks in the leather can usually be repaired or hidden with ordinary shoe polish. Pay attention of that the colour of the polish is the same as the leather.
  • Maintain nickel-plated and stainless steel scabbards as described for metal component and blades above.

On-going care and maintenance
  • All ferrous materials, including stainless steel, will rust in varying degrees if not maintained and with prolonged exposure to the elements.
  • Whether displaying or storing your weapon, periodically clean and wipe your weapon and metal scabbards with a lightly oiled cloth to protect your weapon.
  • Do not store the weapon in the vacuum plastic bag in wet, humid or hot surroundings.
  • If shipping or transporting your weapon by air, securely wrap the weapon in plastic to minimize condensation on the cool weapon surfaces after the weapon returns from the cooler high altitudes.

Ceremonial Use and Safety
  • Weapons are intended for ceremonial use only.
  • Blade tips are relatively sharp, exercise care during use.
  • The blades are not designed for impact and fighting. While forged, tempered, and designed for flexibility and durability, ceremonial blades lack the toughness to withstand the heavy impact of blade-to-blade contact.
  • Do not use ceremonial swords for re-enactment fighting.
  • Horseplay may result in damage to the sword or, worse yet, personal injury.
  • Children tend to have a natural fascination with swords and often mistake a weapon for a toy. Supervise children closely and know that the misuse of a weapon is dangerous.
  • Sword handling is a developed and practiced skill. Do not be flamboyant when handling a drawn sword!

Manufacturers maintenance instructions