Etched Carbon Steel?

[SteelSnob]

I keep seeing blades made from carbon steel that are etched. Does the etching serve any functional purpose or is it merely for looks?

 

[Noumenon]

Someone please correct me if I am wrong but isn't etching just a more harsh and consistent form of making a patina? I thought etching would protect the blade from rusting since the whole surface has already reacted with acid like a patina.

 

[Obsessed with Edges]

I keep seeing blades made from carbon steel that are etched. Does the etching serve any functional purpose or is it merely for looks?

The deliberate etching of patterns/designs/logos on a blade is obviously done for looks, but I think it still can serve a functional purpose. The etched surfaces become oxidized in the etching process. To some degree, that can help to protect those areas from further corrosion. A natural 'patina' on a blade does the same thing, although with a thinner oxide layer.

Aside from that, I think you'll see etching more often on carbon steel, simply because the carbon steel is a lot more receptive to that process (it oxidizes easier than stainless steel, obviously).

 

[Phillip Dobson]

I believe that etching with something like FeCl will help protect the blade from corrosion by adding a protective layer of oxides. I just etched one of my razors last night, and I admit I did it mainly for looks.

 

[SteelSnob]

Thanks guys.