High Carbon Protection Methods: Forced Patina vs Kurouchi, etc

[antiquejim]

Hi all! Long time lurker, hoping to get the perspective of those who have been making or using custom blades much longer than me. (I believe I've posted in the right section, but apologies in advance if I have it wrong).

Basically I am forging a high-carbon (1095 or better) chef's knife for a family friend, and I am trying to think through my finishing options. My aim is to make an "heirloom" caliber blade that can remain in the family for as long as possible. The recipient is a chef, and I have confidence that he will take great care of the blade--but I want to do "a little extra" to make sure it is unique and long-lasting from the get-go.

My question is, of those who have used various methods for added resistance to reactivity & corrosion, which do you find actually makes the most difference over the long (long!) haul?

My mind immediately goes to forcing a patina, leaving a Kurouchi/blacksmith finish, or something in between. I have experience with both (more with patinas), and have read that both have some (I know, not total) protective qualities. I also know that each will wear down a bit over time, which I hope will buy time for a more natural patina to form with use. What I don't know is if one is preferred over the other from a strictly protective standpoint.

I have not found much on this comparative topic in particular, so any advice or perspective would be much appreciated!

 

[Case_D]

Whatever you end up doing, I'd recommend polishing to as high a degree as possible. A high polish gives a bit of added corrosion resistance.

 

[FredyCro]

This will not be useful, but use stainless

 

[shqxk]

Force patina is far overrated as rust protection… Just clean and dry it well after use is enough.

 

[A.McPherson]

Rust bluing, is a simple but long process that will protect steel relatively well. It takes a little setup and a good long time, but it works...
Certainly better than a forced patina.
If you want details let me know and I'll write up how to do it

Id post a pic but imgur is acting up...
I'll try back later.

 

[tito]

Personal preference, but I just use food safe oil. I like to etch them when new and let the patina develop further with use. Every so often I have to get some steel wool and oil to get out a rust spot when someone fails to dry one, but I don't mind.

 

[Crag the Brewer]

I was going to say rust proofing too..... I've done it to a couple of Becker's , and I will occasionally do it again in the future.
I'm surprised it's not talked about/done more often here on BF?
Pictures don't do it justice, but after work, i could post some if needed/wanted.

*Normally I just let the patina happen naturally.....

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Andy and Craig - By all means, post a "How To" and photos on rust bluing