Etching Damascus

[WaltE99]

I'm attempting to clean up some rust spots on a damascus blade of my son's. The maker is deceased so finding out the type of steels used is not possible. I have ground through the etch in a couple of places and there are still several spots that need more work. What is the best way go about re-etching the blade without taking a risk of ruining it? I should mention that this is a boot blade and does not have any handle material...just the tang.

 

[S.Alexander]

Give it a good even sanding with high grit sandpaper, making sure all of your grind marks are removed. Then etch it with ferric chloride and distilled water mixture, in a 1:3 ratio. Leave it in for about 5 minutes, take it out and wipe the oxides off. If you want it etched deeper then put it in again. Once you're happy with the etch depth, neutralize the blade (I use simple green), and rinse with hot water. Then sand it gently with high grit sandpaper and a sanding block. This removes the oxides from the brighter steel, giving you contrast.

Make sure your son keeps the blade dry and oiled to prevent rust in the future.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Some photos of the knife are needed to give advice. Shane's reply will work if the FC won't ruin the handle. I would also use weaker FC, 5:1 ratio water to FC. Other things that will make the etch and are less corrosive are mustard, lemon juice, or white vinegar.

Post a photo or two and let's see if we can come up with a repair.

Filling out your profile would help a lot, as a nearby maker could offer to help.

 

[WaltE99]

Profile has been updated. Will take a photo and upload it this weekend.