Dull Damascus Leek

[DaveReb]

I just scored a nice Damascus Leek recently. This one is an early prototype, with an unlabeled blade. Anyways, being a prototype the Damascus etching is very dull too non-existant, so it just looks like a dull grey blade now. Anyways i'd like to know how or where I can get the blade re-etched?

Thanks
Dave

 

[Thomas W]

I am unaware of any "prototype" damascus Leeks. Got a pic?

As for your re-etching question, I found these former posts/threads:

Recently I noticed some rusting on my damascus Scallion and understandably tried to get rid of it. First I tried some Flitz, that didn't work one bit. Then I tried light sanding with 2000 grit wet/dry, that took care of the rust, but faded the etching to very light and as you would imagine I didn't like it. But with internet being a great tool and BF (as well as some others) being a great source of know-how I did find a recepie to re-etch the blade. That worked like a charm, but I didn't even think about taking pics.
Today I decided to re-etch my Leek, there was no rust, but the pattern was lighter then I preffer. Here's the before and after for your viewing pleasure.

In case you want to take your blade to the etch spa, here's what I did:
Mix 2 parts of H20 (that'd be water for those who are not in the know) and 1 part of Radio Shack's PCB Etchant Solution

(I'm not sure what the equvalent would be), dip your blade in the mix for about a minute or two, remove, neutralize with baking soda, rinse with soapy water, you're done. Make sure you're wearing rubber gloves the enitire time.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=595598&highlight=damascus+etch

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=546609&highlight=damascus+etch

 

[Laceration]

So would dunking the ZDP Shallot in etchant solution enhance the visual difference between the two steels or in that case, any of the composite blade knives? My only concern would be it eating away at the bonding material.

 

[J_Curd]

Laceration...why post something that might lead anyone else to do something that might be dangerous? Seriously?

 

[Laceration]

Well, sharpening a knife is dangerous, handling a firearm is dangerous, crossing an intersection is dangerous, driving is dangerous. Even taking a shower is dangerous. People are going to do what they want, but if you're aware of the risks, take precautions and believe the benefits will outweigh the potential negative impacts of your actions than at least you're making an informed decision. In that regard, I don't think my post was any less responsible than telling someone to spine whack a knife, test a knife to destruction, or even explain the mechanics of throwing a knife.

 

[2brothers]

In that regard, I don't think my post was any less responsible than telling someone to spine whack a knife, test a knife to destruction, or even explain the mechanics of throwing a knife.

The only problem I see with your post is that you're giving advice on how
to blow up bottles filled with chemicals in the Kershaw Knife Sub-Forum.

mike

 

[Laceration]

I guess you're right, even though I don't see anything inherently wrong with my original post. I changed it to something more sub-forum and thread appropriate to avoid any problems and it's an interesting question too, I think.

 

[J_Curd]

Thank you sir. I dont have to be concerned about the teens and tweens amongst us going blind from homemade chemical reactions now. Good show of class.