Durability of Damascus Finish?

[CRM]

Recently I purchased a small classic Sebenza with limited edition graphics and a zebra damascus blade. It's really a beautiful knife and I feel lucky to have gotten it.

I seem to recall from earlier posts that the contrasting black and silver colors in the damascus are enhanced with a chemical wash or etching. Does this mean that the finish can stratch to reveal untreated metal below or that friction can polish off the etched finish? If so, is this fairly rare from normal use?

I know Chris Reeve would be able to restore the finish is this were to happen, but I am curious if I should use this as only a light duty knife and use my other Sebenzas for more routine chores. I should mention that I never abuse my knives.

Thank you in advance for any insight you can give me.

 

[DaveH]

The blade is etched to bring out the contrast between the metals. I suppose that significant use could dull some of the contrast, I'm pretty sure they can be re etched and re finished.

If you don't abuse, go ahead and use!

 

[Scott Dog]

I'm not sure that the blade can be re-etched. A call to CRK would put you straight. I havn't had this issue with CRK (scratched damascus) but I have with other makers and whenever I ask if the the blade can be re-etched all I get is funny looks which leads me to believe that they are not easily restored. The damascus should perform well but if a scratch is going to bother you, save your using chores for another knife and don't count on the finish being restored.

 

[Fort Henry Custom Knives]

I've had over a dozen Makers tell me that they do not re-etch their Damascus blades (they never turn out as well and it is difficult with little reward). I've had one Maker here on the Forums state the exact opposite. My opinion, don't use it as it will never be restored to new condition.

 

[CRM]

Thank you for the responses. To be honest, I hadn't thought about the finish until I took the blade out to lubricate it and noticed how the polished area looks. I think I had better use it as a very light duty knife. A few scratches would not be bad, but I wouldn't want the finish to be really compromised.