It's true that applying oil on the surface, outside of the shinai will not be absorbed (because the skin of the outside bamboo). However, when some filing is done to remove splinters, then the skin surface portion is erased and then oil is a good sealant and offers some protection. The inside of the bamboo will also absorb oil treatment. Learned this from an old Japanese sensei many years ago.
Kendo-Guide.Com: Thank you for sharing your experience. It is true that if you sand the surface of shinai we should apply oil but I also suggest not sanding the surface. So when you sand, you should take the shinai apart and sand splinters off without sanding the surface.
Kendo is fun! Kendo is enjoyable! Adults beginners and late starters of kendo have hard time to understand that. If you are one of them, I want to help you with learning kendo and share the enjoyment and joy of kendo! Click here to know about me and Kendo-Guide.Com.
Search Your Topic
Newsletter
Would you like to subscribe to the Kendo-Guide.Com Newsletter to receive updates and exclusive videos only available for subscribers and patrons. Click here to find out more about the newsletter or click the orange button below to subscribe right now.