Weren't the origins of damascus that its multiple layers gave the blade more strength? I realize that with today's wonder steels, it would be tough for a damascus blade to offer better performance, but, as one who primarily loves the artistry of knives, I like many different patterns, though I like equally a satin finished blade with a well executed hamon. I have to admit, lately, for me to like a knife, the blade needs to be either damascus, or have a temper line, otherwise, the blade seems too plain.
As others said, I think I like the damascus patterns that are relatively random and evoke that hand forged feel, like Fisk's Wolfstooth for example, or Mike Williams randoms and Bradshaw's, I'm also a fan of multi-bar composite blades. I appreciate the skill necessary to make these types of blades, and it gives me warm fuzzies when I see them.
Here is a Mike Williams pattern on a big 12" bowie.
Fisk Wolfstooth...
Bradshaw's multi-bar...
Here's a great Bradshaw small bowie with both a sweet pattern
and a vivid temper line.
Here's one by Steve Dunn, a little racy for a MS, but still neat...
But, I can also appreciate the complexity of some of the more common, almost artificial looking ones by guys like Devin Thomas, like this Reptilian...
And, who could forget Don Hanson's amazing mosaics...
Here's a Kious which combines a multi-bar bolster and a complex mosaic blade. Frankly, as I look over these pictures, it becomes hard to believe a knife lover can't appreciate the beauty and complexity of good damascus.
OK, I'm done...
