1084 etching problems?

[bronyblacksmith]

I m trying to etch some 1084 in warm vinegar but it always comes out a mid dark grey that just washes off to a dull light grey. does 1084 just not etch well?

 

[JZknives]

I m trying to etch some 1084 in warm vinegar but it always comes out a mid dark grey that just washes off to a dull light grey. does 1084 just not etch well?

are you trying to etch your name? Or a design?

If its a design or name or something its going to take lots of small dunk n wipes to get a deep etch. And vinegar is NOT The stuff to be using for that type of stuff as its very low powered in terms of eating metal. What people use vinegar for in knifemaking is achieving that dull gray finish.

But the best way that i have found is this (for etching names and maker marks).

http://forums.dfoggknives.com/index.php?showtopic=17602

But

If you want to etch designs you are going to want to pick up some ferric chloride at radio shack (even this isnt the best to use for etching designs , but it is by far the safest as nitric acid and hydrochloric acid are a nightmare to work with.) . Be careful though as it stains EVERYTHING ON THE PLANET. and those stains will stay there until you neutralize the acid with baking soda. Until its neutralized it will continue to effect metal. For example if you are working on a wood table and spill some ferric , you can try to wipe it up with a towel and forget about it , but the next time you put a knife next to that stain it will start eating away and rusting the nearby metal , it doesnt even have to be touching.

Also dont pour it down the drain , it will eat the drain away.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

JZ, ferric chloride is used dilute, and won't eat away pipes. Poured carelessly, it might stain the sink, though. It can be poured down the drain and rinsed down with the tap water safely.

Neutralizers are ammonia ( Windex), TSP, and sodium carbonate ( baking soda and water)