Low-contrast Damascus for Sebenza?

R

rodmeister

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Feb 12, 2000
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Does CRK offer a Low-contrast Damascus, if such a thing exists?

I'm considering a Small Damascus Sebenza, but am put-off by the garish Hi-contrast Damascus, and wonder if a more subtle pattern is available?
 
It's my understanding that stainless damascus or damasteel (I believe that's what they are called), is a low contrast damascus steel.

Mike
 
I know that the damascus patterns in CRK knives is chemically treated to highlight the patterns. I'll bet that if you call CRK and ask them to put a untreated blade in your knife they will..... I also bet that without the treatment that the damascus will be VERY subdued, to the point of needing very good light and a magnifying glass to see it.
 
As lunumbra stated, damascus is placed in an etchant solution to bring out the contrast. Since this is one of the final steps in preparing the blade, it should be possible to request a light etching.

If not, you could polish the blade with a dremel or similar tool, then re-etch with diluted hydrochloric (muriatic) acid or ferric chloride. Both are commonly available, the most likely local suppliers (in USA) being swimming pool shops for the former and Radio Shack for the latter (PC board etchant). One caviat is that ferric chloride is more likely to cause pitting, though with high dilution ratios and/or short soak durations. this shouldn't be a much of a concern.
 
Although I don't have a sebbie with damascus, I do however have a Scott Cook Owyhee with a Devin Thomas stainless raindrop damascus blade. Here's a pic...I think its a fairly low contrast and Chris Reeve uses this same damascus as an option for sebbie blades.

fcfd1554.jpg


I love an excuse to show off my knives!!
 
I have a Stainless steel damascus sebie on order

I have looked at Devin Thomas's site and in the price list he has all stainless and then high contrast damascus listed so I guess the SS is much lower contrast.
 
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