Damascus or Regular Steel Mnandi

[Cheesehead_Slasher]

I've decided to buy a Mnandi for edc to work (office setting). I do plan to use the knife to open envelopes, cut food, etc.

My previous experience with damascus was not so good. It rusted rather easily and lost its beautiful color contrast after moderate use. The contrast between the dark and light in the blade faded. (Note this knife was a Kershaw not a CRK). I've been leaning towards the plain steel for these reasons.

Before I make a final decision I'd like to hear your feedback and experiences using a damascus CRK.

Thanks!

 

[blanco112]

CRK uses Devin Thomas stainless damascus now so rust isn't much of a concern. However it doesn't have as much contrast. And over time the contrast will lessen, especially in areas where your fingers rub. Some people like this look but it's possible you may not based on what I can glean from your OP. I like damascus but I'm prepared for the fact it will fade. I also like CRKs polished blades very much too.

 

[Lone_Wolfe]

For cutting food, I prefer a plain blade. Easier to get it completely clean, therefore more sanitary.

 

[peterbright]

I'd vote for a plain blade as well.

 

[EvilBoffin]

Isn't a Damascus blade Mnandi easier to open than a standard, s35vn blade version??

I've seen reports here that the new-design nail nick needs all the help it can get, and damascus seems to improve thumb grip on that nick enough that it is less difficult to deploy...

True ??

 

[red mag]

monosteel.
two reasons:
1. like LW said
2. personal preference - I like the look of steel and the reflection of the sun on the blade.

 

[sk8n]

Isn't a Damascus blade Mnandi easier to open than a standard, s35vn blade version??

I've seen reports here that the new-design nail nick needs all the help it can get, and damascus seems to improve thumb grip on that nick enough that it is less difficult to deploy...

True ??

Yes, damascus blade is easier to open than S35V. If you want a non-damascus blade that is easier to open look for an S30V blade or an S35V blade with old style nail nick. Here's a thread that discusses the differences. http://www.bladeforums.com/threads/original-style-mnandi-vs-new-style-mnandi.1063276/

 

[blanco112]

Isn't a Damascus blade Mnandi easier to open than a standard, s35vn blade version??

I've seen reports here that the new-design nail nick needs all the help it can get, and damascus seems to improve thumb grip on that nick enough that it is less difficult to deploy...

True ??

It is easier to open. It also rubs away the damascus over time where your thumb presses against the blade.

 

[EvilBoffin]

... It also rubs away the damascus over time where your thumb presses against the blade.

Really?
That is disappointing, that the damascus pattern can be worn away by routine contact with the blade...

I certainly expected the visible pattern to be far more permanent that that, given the extra price, and multi-steel forging process that makes up dammie steel.

 

[blanco112]

Really?
That is disappointing, that the damascus pattern can be worn away by routine contact with the blade...

I certainly expected the visible pattern to be far more permanent that that, given the extra price, and multi-steel forging process that makes up dammie steel.

Yeah, I have no idea how many times it takes opening and closing where the fade becomes noticeable but if you ever see pictures of user damascus you will typically see fading across the blade but in particular, just below the thumbstuds (on a sebenza). I have a ladder mnandi I bought used so I have no idea how many times the previous owner opened and closed it, but it's ever so slightly faded just below the nail nick. It's only barely noticeable but I can see it. I carry this knife a lot. If it were a safe queen or one that barely comes out it'd look like new.

 

[kidcongo]

Really?
That is disappointing, that the damascus pattern can be worn away by routine contact with the blade...

I certainly expected the visible pattern to be far more permanent that that, given the extra price, and multi-steel forging process that makes up dammie steel.

Both of the steels in a standard pattern-welded "Damascus" blade, such as those used by CRK, are the same basic silver colour. It is only through selective acid etching that the differences in the two steels becomes apparent. As you rub against the blade, you eventually remove the incredibly thin layer of grey oxide from the steel that took the etch, and everything returns to the normal silver colour. You buy a Damascus blade for looks rather than performance, so it creates a conundrum if you plan on using it, as using it will deminish its fancy appearance.

There is a sort of badass attitude to using Damascus, that I admire.

 

[EvilBoffin]

.
I've heard of people re-etching damascus themselves, with varying levels of success....

Would CRK fix scratches, refinish & then re-etch a damascus blade if a Mnandi was sent to them ??
Or would they just offer to replace the blade outright ??

 

[bhyde]

IIRC, they can re-etch, but it's very limited on how many times..1 or 2.