Etching: How is it done? What are the benefits?

[JMFWSU]

Hi,

What exactly takes place during etching, and does it really prevent rusting? Does it serve a practical purpose?

I have a hiking knife made of 0-1 that I will be using without handle scales. I really like the feel of the knife without scales, but I'm a little worried about the handle rusting. Would etching help prevent this?

Thanks a lot,
Jason

 

[atakach]

imo, not exactly ive had mixed results, ive done up blades of damascus, that never got finished that had been etched that sit in the shop and have got a light rust on them from just sitting around. on the other hand i have a test knife i made (just the blade) of 52100, and i etched it to reveal temper line in ferric, and its benn sitting in the shop for prob two years, and not a spec of rust on it. though i may have oiled it one time (2yrs ago.) so i guess there is more variables that effect this. i'd be interested in hearing some other opinions.

 

[A C Richards]

Etching does not prevent rust. If your whole knife is made of the same material then why treat the handle any different from the blade?? Take care of it and keep a light oil or wax on it. It should not give you any problems. If you are really worried about it then look into parkerizing. This puts a lay over the steel and prevents oxidation. If you are the type to use it and throw it into your pack and forget about it then parkerize it. If you take care of your knives, like it appears you do, then no probs.