Ferric Chloride and D2

[Quietguy4ever]

Will Ferric Chloride etch the D2 steel use in the BK24? Might have to look more in the maintenance forum but since I am wanting to mod a BK24 I thought I would ask here.

 

[tanglediver]

I would think so. It had no trouble on my BK9 and another small knife of unknown steel. It was stamped "stainless" but I have cleaned rust off of it before.

 

[granitestateofmind]

I'm pretty sure if it's steel, of any type, ferric chloride will etch it. I know that the electrochemical method will etch stainless.

 

[Quietguy4ever]

Thanks.
I also found some examples of its use in other stainless steels. so I would think D2 would take it as well.

 

[cEdge]

No need for ferric chloride, vinegar will put a nice patina on D2. For stainless you need something stonger than vinegar, ferric chloride will do the trick (diluted). Vinegar will take a few hours to put a patina on D2. Straight FC will darken D2 or stainless with just a few dips I believe.

 

[Quietguy4ever]

I was looking to etch the year the knife was purchased into the handle of the knife not just patina. But thanks for the heads up. I might try forcing a patina while I am at it.

 

[cEdge]

Im not sure of the difference. D2 takes a hell of a patina when subjected to a mild acid such as vinegar. Ferric chloride might be overkill. Just check out the below link. Whatever you do, keep us posted.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/1052223-Leek-1660cb-bringing-the-two-tone-look-back