How do they bead blast?

[Midget]

I'm not a knife maker, but I think this is probably the right place to ask.

So how do they bead blast? I'm assuming, with a bead blaster.

But more specific. Like, for most matte finished on our blades, what sort of grit do they use?

Basically, a bead blaster is an air compressor with a blasting nozzle attached, right? In a case with some nice lucite to look through. But I was just wondering how the whole process works.

Do any of you prefer bead blasting, if so or if not, how come?

Just curious. Thanks.

 

[RARanney]

Aluminum oxide, ceramic beads, glass beads, etc. are shot out of a nozzle, producing a matte grey finish of varying tones. The French made ceramic beads used by some (both moderators) actually peen the surface rather than opening it up. The peened surface seems more resistant to fingerprints and staining.