Art of Knifemaking Article and Damasus Steel

[ronald_bruce]

I recently read an article in my local newspaper on the are of knife making and they referenced an Arkansas school and the American Bladesmith Society (www.americanbladesmith.com). Before I read this article I thought knife making was easy. Now I think better. The article states to pass the stringent master bladesmith test one has to forge a damascus blade that will cut rope, chop a 2x4 in half, then be able to shave the hair off your arm. The final test is to bend the knife 90 degrees without breaking. Is a damascus blade this good? I did a search and could only find one american production company, Bear Damascus and it wasn't highly regarded. Are there any reputable forgers of damascus steel blades?

Ronald Bruce

 

[Paracelsus]

Welcome to BladeForums!

Yes indeed, there are many makers of fine damascus and forged carbon steel knives with differential temper that will pass the tests you described. For more info, look at The American Bladesmith Society (ABS) site.

This subject is very complex and full of interesting history. Bill Moran, MS is generally regarded with having brought back the art of making damascus steel. The ancient damascus is more properly known as Wootz steel. Most modern forged blade makers are producing what should properly be called pattern welded steel. Someone else will jump in here and explain this in more detail. Check out the Custom knife forum here at BFC. Use the search function in the general and custom forums for damascus steel. There is a wealth of information at your fingertips.

There are a great number of fine smiths producing damascus blades in very interesting and amazing patterns. Check out Ed Caffrey and Don Fogg's web sites. And Mastersmith Ron Newton's pattern welded steel is simply amazing. Look at Ron Newton's photopoint site. There is much for you to learn. Enjoy the forums and the passion for handmade knives!


Paracelsus

[This message has been edited by Paracelsus (edited 10-01-2000).]

 

[Crayola]

You can get non-damascus steel blades that will do the same feats as well! The talents of knife makers are growing, as is their numbers. One main advantage of a damascus blade that can pass such tests is its beauty-damascus is suuuuuurrrre pretty stuff. Also, if you are a collector your damascus piece should retain its value, no problem!!!

Welcome to the forums.

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