Abs test knives

[Patty]

I'm new to knifemaking and was learning about how ABS tests work, when I read the test knives can't be Damascus.....can anyone tell me why?

 

[David Mary]

I am open to correction, as I really don't know, but it seems this article offers an explanation of sorts.

The 10 Trials of the Master Bladesmith

You think it’s hard to get a job in your industry? Try becoming a master bladesmith—there are fewer than 200 in the world.

www.atlasobscura.com

The final step in the test is the most stressful—literally. During the final phase of testing, the tester will place the tip of the blade in a vise, and bend it to a 90 degree angle, sometimes using a pipe for leverage. This tests the strength of the metal and the apprentice’s ability to heat treat it, giving the blade a harder edge and springier back. If the stress on the blade causes it to chip, shatter, or snap, the apprentice fails. A slight bit of cracking is allowed, but this is a slim margin for error.

No matter the outcome, the knife is ruined.

Seems rather merciful if they made a rule that test knives should not be Damascus.

 

[scherf68]

I'm new to knifemaking and was learning about how ABS tests work, when I read the test knives can't be Damascus.....can anyone tell me why?

I believe one of the levels is to make a Damascus knife, I read that when researching. Found it, for master smith, final step.

https://www.americanbladesmith.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/MS_Test_FINAL_11-04-2019.pdf

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

The Journeyman Smith knife has to be mono-steel. The Master Smith knife has to be damascus.

The test knife is not to make the best knife possible. It is to make a knife that will survive the given test parameters. Once your test knife passes, you go to Atlanta where you also submit five judging knives that are of the best quality you can do. These are judged, and if acceptable, you receive your rating ( Journeyman or Master).