Muratic acid vs ferric chloride...

D

DHackney

Joined
Jul 12, 2004
Messages
178
I've been told that I can etch my differentially heat treated (O-1) blade with either muratic acid or ferric chloride.

I'd like to ask which is better for bringing out the hamond and, being a beginner, if I'm better off trying the muratic acid method.

Any tips or tricks would be very welcome.

Many thanks,
Dana Hackney
Monument, CO
 
I'd go with the fc. I've done alittle with the muratic and its one of those things you need to avoid for health sake. The fc will do everything you want, just don't drink it. Leave the muratic alone.....
 
where is the best place to buy FC? I've heard that Radio Shack used to carry it but not sure.

Many thanks,
Dana
 
Radio Shack is where i get mine, but you have to ask for Printed Circuit board etchant, and tell them it is a brown liquid in a bottle. I have asked for it and the guy told me they didnt have any, i looked over his left shoulder and asked if i could get that bottle, he didnt even look for it, so if you look on the shelves around the printed circuit board supplies you will probably find it and save having the guy behind the counter ask you all kinds of questions.
 
Your best bet is to go to Radio Shack. There are companies in the electronics industry that sell ferric chloride but it would be in bulk and may be in the form of dry crystals.

Radio Shack lists ferric chloride as PCB etchant (Catalog #: 276-1535) on their website. It is $4.29 for a 16 oz bottle.

I found another company that will sell you a 32 oz bottle for $19.99. I just found them on the web now (search for PCB etchant) and know nothing about them.

http://www.e-clec-tech.com/fechpet.html


I don't know what the concentration is of either product so I am not able to compare value for $.

Don't get the stuff on your skin or your clothing as it will stain it. The stains on your skin will eventually come off. The stains on your clothing will not.

Phil
 
there is a RS store in the little town on Monument, CO. I'll pay them a visit
on the way home tonight.

Have a great weekend!

Dana
 
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