Since I happen to have all the required stuff available on the kitchen counter for an experiment, why not do it. I just got a new Wusthof 200 anniversary set from KSF and needed to force a patina on it. Our dog, has a drain tube in his ear (strange story) and so I had some Hydrogen Peroxide that we use to clean the tube area each time we uncap it and drain the fluids. So, experiment I did!
I can affirmatively say that Hydrogen Peroxide (Topical Solution (3%), table salt (kosher), and carbon steel (Wusthof) will not explode violently when sprayed on a knife at the kitchen table in Kansas. Very unscientific, but hey, I got pictures. I didn't like the look, so I wrapped it in a paper towel, poured on some vinegar, and let it sit a while (15 minutes). I liked that look.
Here's the photos:
The ingredients:
bubbling peroxide and salt.
Vinegar Process in action. (Goldfish are not required, but a nice touch)
Final (it's darker than it looks like in the picture.)