Damascus care?

[VoZe]

Anyone that had a Damascus knife, is there any care that you put into it? I plan on getting a folding knife for a edc but don’t know if Damascus is a good choice for edc.

 

[Rich S]

If it is good quality damascus, just oil it like any other carbon steel. Stay away from cheapy Pakistan damascus - won't hold an edge.
Rich

 

[evilgreg]

Yup, take care of it like you'd take care of whatever kinds of steel it's made from. If it's stainless damascus (made from two types of stainless) then treat it like you would stainless. If it's got carbon steel, treat it like other carbon steels (i.e. take the usual steps to avoid corrosion, oil it, keep it dry, etc.).

 

[VoZe]

Does it show scratches easily because I want to make it a edc and don’t want to spend $100+ on a knife that is not durable and thanks for the tip

 

[bflying]

Does it show scratches easily because I want to make it a edc and don’t want to spend $100+ on a knife that is not durable and thanks for the tip

Maybe you should mention what brands and/or models that you are considering. That would help the pros and gurus give you better more targeted information.

 

[Ajack60]

Yes, Damascus will show scratches like any other steel. It will also fade with use, one of mine is fading around the thumb studs. It is stainless, don't have a clue what carbon steel will do.

 

[Dcdavis]

I have one Damascus user. A ladder Crk 21. I personally love it. As Ajack60 said it will scratch and fade. I personally think it looks good with wear and tear on it. Especially the plain handle with Damascus. As far as edge retention goes mine has held up pretty good. No complaints here. Here’s a couple pics of mine from work with some scars. Different lighting can hide the pattern also

 

[VoZe]

The one I’m looking at is the Boker Plus Exskelubur II Liner Lock knife Cocobolo. But Mcusta makes some really nice ones as well

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

The only caution I'll throw in is, don't polish it. Might already know this, but polishing with abrasive polishes (Flitz, Simichrome, etc.) will remove the dark oxide etch. The pattern will still be there in true damascus, but it'll lose a lot of contrast. Only way to restore it would be to etch it again.

I like the Mcusta damascus blades. They're not just pretty; they've also got some fantastic super-thin blade grinds as well. Great cutters. I have one of theirs in the VG-10 & stainless damascus laminate blades. The thin grind means it's real easy to sharpen up and keep it that way.

 

[Unicorn161]

I like two things for all of my knives. Silicone and wax. You can find food safe versions of both hat have safe or no solvents. Neither are as messy as oils.


For the fading would it be so easy as an acid bath to bring it back?