Help me pick some damascus

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Nov 22, 2002
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I'm slowly putting together the funds by selling stuff to spec a custom damascus blade. I've decided I really like the combination of carbon fiber and damascus. What are my options on types of damascus that can be ordered by the maker? He has a piece of Thunder forged on hand, but I would like to see what else is out there. Pics, links etc would be really helpful. I would also like to know if there are any performance advantages of one type versus another.

-- Dizos
 
My understanding is that the Thunder Forged damascus is not as good at taking and holding an edge as some of the others. Devon Thomas damascus is one of the names that comes very highly recommended.
 
You can see prices and options of Devin Thomas damascus at www.devinthomas.com

When it comes to some performing better than others, it usually has to do with who made it and what the materials are. If you want ultimate performance, get something with two high carbon steels in it. Devin Thomas makes O1 and 15n20 that should perform very well. He also makes some double high carbon stainless damascus, but you would have to talk to him about what materials he has on hand and what he recommends. He is currently experimenting with some exotic steels, like D2 and 154-CM mix, and is considering an S30V and BG-42 mix. If you just want carbon steel, though, just go for the O1 and 15n20.
 
Look at makers sites that use a lot of damascus. My site is full of differant types of Devin Thomas Damascus knives.
 
I've like the knives I have made from Mike Norris Damascus. He uses D2 and 302. Cuts like the dickens... I think the raindrop looks good with Carbon Fiber
 
Check out the various knifemaker supply stores,
like texas knife supply
and koval knives,
there's others, but I'm not really familiar with them.
 
I would not buy Thunderforged.

The big names of high quality/high quantity have been mentioned, Devon Thomas and Mike Norris. Both guys make beautiful damascus that also cuts well.

If you want a custom or mosaic pattern contact one of the Monatana or Northwest bladesmiths: Tom Ferry, Ed Caffrey, Shane Taylor, Ed, Schempp, Gary House, John Davis, etc. Any of these guys can make custom damascus steel that will blow your socks off!

If you want more information give me a call.
 
Chuck Bybee said:
If you want a custom or mosaic pattern contact one of the Monatana or Northwest bladesmiths: Tom Ferry, Ed Caffrey, Shane Taylor, Ed, Schempp, Gary House, John Davis, etc. Any of these guys can make custom damascus steel that will blow your socks off!
You forgot Robert Eggerling, if you want mosaic damascus, I would go for either Eggerling or Gary House, they only make mosaic damascus, and could likely get something sooner from them than someone else. Mosaic is very expensive, though.
 
Larrin said:
You can see prices and options of Devin Thomas damascus at www.devinthomas.com

When it comes to some performing better than others, it usually has to do with who made it and what the materials are. If you want ultimate performance, get something with two high carbon steels in it. Devin Thomas makes O1 and 15n20 that should perform very well. He also makes some double high carbon stainless damascus, but you would have to talk to him about what materials he has on hand and what he recommends. He is currently experimenting with some exotic steels, like D2 and 154-CM mix, and is considering an S30V and BG-42 mix. If you just want carbon steel, though, just go for the O1 and 15n20.

S30V and BG-42 mix??? :eek:

Larrin, could you keep us updated on what Devin comes up with...

I think Mike Norris uses D2 and CPM440V as well (not in that combo)....
 
Kevin Cashen makes some of the best damascus, and with a combination of O1 and L6, it performs.
 
Another option would be to look at some makers here on the forums that forge their own damascus, and have them build the knife four you.
 
Another option would be to look at some makers here on the forums that forge their own damascus, and have them build the knife four you.

I already have David Mosier (DM Knives) lined up to build it. It is going to be his DM6 but with a recurve blade. I think I settled on the Devon ladderback O1/15n20. Then again that Mike Norris raindrop is very tempting... I need to watch the budget on this one so I'm sticking to the larger production operations since the more custom stuff is a little too pricey. I've had alot of fun looking into this Damascus thing. Thank you all for your input.

-- Dizos
 
Okay, due to the price I may already know the answer to this but what do you people think about Bear brand damascus?

Their Bowie looks like a pretty decent design; not too big & not too small, plus its sort of a traditional design. I especially like it with the water buffalo horn handle - looks pretty cool & for about $200 (actually, a little less) it seems like one heck of a deal on a damascus steel knife...

However, I am a bit skeptical - any input would be appreciated.

Thanks!
 
Bear damascus is very cheaply made, and with cheap materials. I've never used it myself, though all feedback I've ever seen on the forums has been negative.
 
James Green Dragon said:
Okay, due to the price I may already know the answer to this but what do you people think about Bear brand damascus?

I especially like it with the water buffalo horn handle - looks pretty cool & for about $200 (actually, a little less) it seems like one heck of a deal on a damascus steel knife.

Thanks!
Why aren't all the big knife companies doing this?

Why aren't custom knifemakers using this damascus?

Think about it.
 
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