Electro etching over black oxide?

[Justin.P]

Ok, I didn't make this particular knife, but I figured the guys that could answer my question would be here.

I bought a black oxide stainless Leatherman Surge that I carry at work.
I have an electro etcher, and all the goodies to make stencils, and I've etched knives and tools before. But never over black oxide.
I've seen electrolyte for sale for etching over a black oxide finish. But no photos of what it looks like or info about doing it. I've searched here and other places and found almost no info.
I don't have anything to practice on either, so this will be a one shot deal. It's my own knife, so if I screw up it ain't the end of the world, but it will irritate me forever if I do.

If anybody has any hints, suggestions, tip, pitfalls, favorite electrolyte solutions or photos, I would really appreciate any help you can offer.

Thanks!

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

With the right electrolyte and a DC etch it comes out white. Done wrong is is just a dark etch on a black surface. You have to use lots of pressure to keep the contact tight, and only enough electrolyte on the pad to pass the current.

 

[Justin.P]

Thank you Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith !
I guess I have seen it then.
I thought the white i had seen was laser engraved.

I wish I had stuff to test on. Now I wonder if the regular stainless electrolyte might make a nice subtle black on black look.

Thanks for the response Stacy, you always go above and beyond trying to help everyone out.
Thanks for this reply and all your other ones too!