Damascus question

J

jim c

Joined
Jan 20, 2001
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176
I just received my Sebenza back from CRK today after they installed a Devin Thomas raindrop damascus blade on it. The blade looks great. My question is about the black between the raindrops. Is it a black coating like on a Benchmade or Microtech Black bladed knife or is it a black steel? I was also wondering how easy it is to scratch. I plan on using the blade just like any other work knife. Thanks for any input.

jim c
 
P.S.

I forgot to ask if the blade does get scratched is there any way to send it back in and have it refinished?
 
The black areas are simply oxidized steel. After the damascus blade is profiled and polished, it is dipped in an acid etch, which oxidizes the base steel. The pattern steel, which contains nickel, does not oxidize in this process. I'm not quite sure how durable the oxide layer is, but if scratched or abraded sufficiently, the oxidation layer will be removed and show the base steel underneath.

The General has said that the black and white damascus is surprisingly durable, and cuts extremely well. After the blade shows a lot of wear, simply send back to CRK and they can refinish the damascus to like new condition!
 
rodmeister, they returned the original blade. I can swap from the bg-42 to the damascus any time I want and they both lock up great.
 
jim c:

I appreciate your reply. I remember being disappointed by a previous thread that indicated CRK wouldn't provide two blades for one Sebenza because of fitting problems. Good to hear I can get a "convertible" Sebenza in the future. My Decorated Sebenza has blue and magenta zigzags and would look good with a blue damascus. And it would be cheaper to get a new blade rather than a whole new knife.

I can image someone out there with a multi-set of blades and scales, all fitted, so they can mix and match to fit the mood or occasion.

Thanks again.
 
My Spiral Damascus blade is made from the Double High Carbon Steel (1084 and L6 IIRC) it holds a very good edge and 'rips/saws' like nothing I have ever seen, even with a polished edge.

Jki is quite right that this steel is quite durable and the finish seems far more durable than my other blades in Ti coatings. Just use a black Ti coated knife on a couple of cardboard boxes and you will see what I mean! I have used this knife on cardbard boxes and no probs or even the slightest mark!

Worst I can say is a coin nicked the edge near the tang when in my pocket. Its a prob with the Sebi open back design.:(
Whilst it was a killer at the time, 20 passes per side on step 4 of the sharpmaker got most of it out and now it just shows as a light patch when I look at it under the light. I would not have bothered doing more than steeling it, but I did not want it to fracture at the edge.

All in all great looking and great using, not a good choice for shaving hair though...;) Unless you are Freddy Kruggers barber!:p

I want a raindrop pattern in a large decorated next... Can't afford it but I can dream right?

Jki, hows it going my friend, long time to hear! Hope all is well?:)
 
Jim. Is your Damascus stainless?

It took almost 2 years, but it should be here in a week or two. I've had on order a large regular to be made with two blades; a stainless Damascus and a regular for more mundane chores. It's taken a long time to get the Stainless Damascus. In fact the introduction of S30V came about while waiting. I'm hoping for this Damascus to be a true user steel!:)

I have, carry, and use a custom Mnandi with regular high carbon, black and white Devon Thomas Damascus. Keeping it clean and dirt free, I've never had a problem with it. It holds an outstanding edge and sharpens beautifully.

If G2 reads this post, maybe he can elaborate on some pretty neat sheaths he made for me...:D :D :footinmou
 
K-Guy,

I don't know if its a stainless or not. All I know is that is a Devin Thomas Raindrop Damascus.
 
Well, I know that the stainless Damascus I'm getting from the shop is Devon's Raindrop pattern as well. I could have waited another few months for a different pattern such as ladder or I think sharkstooth, but I like the raindrop just fine. That and my anxiousness to get the knife. You really can't go wrong with either Damascus steel, carbon/nickel or stainless. I just opted for stainless because I plan on using it quite a bit. Just the higher corrosion resistance and toughness properties is what I was looking for. I don't want to have to worry about the blade rusting quick if I get it wet or bloody(cleaning meat). Even with the high carbon Damascus, a little Tuf-Cloth goes a long way.

Just talking with Bridget, Chris approved my second blade to be a flat ground BG-42 blade.:) This piece is going to be extra special having the ability to switch blades.

You should be happy with either Damascus I'm sure. Just care for the high carbon stuff a little more. It'll give you years of great service.
 
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