damascus and MOP questions

[Ryan Meyering]

My understanding is that damascus needs to be finished just like any other steel, but also needs to be etched to bring out the color. Is this true? If so, how is the etching done? Is it simply the application of acid to the finished blade?

Also, regarding mother of pearl, are there any special requirements for shaping and finishing, besides the need for a respirator? I've heard that the stuff is really toxic and that special precautions are necessary. Is MOP difficult to work with and finish?

As always, your help is appreciated.

Ryan

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For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

Romans 6:23

 

[Chuck Richards]

Damascus needs to be etched to bring out the pattern. I use ferric chloride, printed curcuit board etchant from radio shack. Mix 50/50 with distilled water. Don Fogg has a great web site that discribes th process.

 

[george tichbourne]

MOP is not toxic in the way that arsenic is but the dust like all dusts should be avoided for the health of your lungs. By all means wear a respirator.

Drill all holes with very sharp drills and go a little oversize because MOP is brittle and can't be forced or it will break. Take care if you peen the pins as it might split.


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george
www.tichbourneknives.com
sales@tichbourneknives.com