What if my item arrives broken?

We understand with the nature of what we are sending out, items may be broken in transit. We would be happy to send you a replacement if your item was damaged in transit. Please send a photo of your broken item within 14 days of delivery. Once we receive the photo we will be able to send a replacement.If the item that is damaged is currently out of stock, you may choose another item equal value or less or receive a full refund for the item (shipping will not be refunded).

Is bronze better than steel?

The comparison of bronze and steel depends on the specific application and desired qualities. Each material has its own advantages and limitations, and the suitability depends on factors such as strength requirements, durability, corrosion resistance, and the intended use.Advantages of Bronze:Corrosion Resistance: Bronze exhibits good resistance to corrosion, particularly in atmospheric and water environments. It forms a protective layer of copper oxide on its surface, which helps prevent further corrosion. This makes bronze a suitable choice for applications where corrosion resistance is important.Malleability and Ductility: Bronze is highly malleable and ductile, making it easier to shape and form into intricate designs. It can be cast, molded, or shaped more easily compared to steel.Aesthetic Appeal: Bronze has an attractive warm reddish-brown color and a distinct appearance. It is often chosen for decorative and artistic applications due to its aesthetic appeal.Advantages of Steel:Strength and Hardness: Steel, particularly high-carbon steel and various steel alloys, offers superior strength and hardness compared to bronze. It is a stronger and more durable material, making it suitable for applications requiring higher strength and resistance to deformation.Versatility: Steel is a highly versatile material that can be tailored to specific applications through the use of different alloys and heat treatment processes. It can be optimized for various properties, including hardness, toughness, and corrosion resistance.Edge Retention: Steel can achieve and maintain a sharp edge better than bronze, making it suitable for cutting tools, blades, and implements where a long-lasting sharp edge is required.Availability and Cost: Steel is more readily available and generally less expensive compared to bronze, which can make it a more practical choice for many applications.Ultimately, the choice between bronze and steel depends on the specific requirements of the application. Bronze may be preferred for its corrosion resistance, malleability, and aesthetic qualities, while steel is favored for its superior strength, hardness, and versatility.

What should I use to maintain a black lacquer saya long-term?

Black lacquer saya require minimal but consistent care to preserve their finish over years of display. Avoid placing the saya in direct sunlight or near heat sources - UV exposure and thermal cycling cause lacquer to dull, crack, or peel at the edges over time. For routine maintenance, wipe the surface with a soft, dry microfiber cloth to remove dust without abrading the finish. If the saya develops minor surface scuffs, a very small amount of Renaissance Wax applied with a soft cloth and buffed gently can restore surface depth without introducing moisture. Never use silicone-based sprays, which can seep into joints and compromise the wood beneath the lacquer. Keep the saya stored horizontally or on a proper display stand to prevent warping of the wooden core, and avoid storing it in sealed plastic cases without ventilation, as trapped humidity is the most common cause of long-term lacquer damage.

What is your shipping times?

Updated Jun 2020

Once your item is ready, we will ship it to you with UPS, SF-Express OR USPS, usually delivery time is between 10-15 business days. however sometimes it is delayed by the customs department, we will provide you with tracking number information so you can track it once it was shipped.

If it is your personalized custom order, usually the production time will be extended to 30-60 days, which will be based on the difficulty of your order process.