Question about Damascus steel...

[PRKsux]

Hi,
I recently purchased a knife made of
"12-bar composite" Damascus steel.
I understand what Damascus is and how it is made(or do I?) but don't quite know what "12-bar" or "composite" means. Please explain the meaning of "bar" and what the number represents.
Also, please let me know if there are any websites out there where I can get some information about Damascus.
Thanks!

 

[Ed Caffrey]

A composite blade is one that is made up of a number of different damascus bars. As with the case you spoke of.....a 12 bar damascus composite is where 12 individual bars of damsascus were created, then those 12 bars are combined to produce the finished blade. the bars are forge welded together in a manner to achieve a desire end pattern. The best example I can think of is a pattern call "Gordian's Knot". Two bars are forged to approx 80-100 layers. One bar is twisted clockwise, the other counter clockwise. Then the two bars are welded together, and twisted. During the twisting operation (depending on the direction of twist), one bar is twisted tighter, and the other is untwisted, creating the pattern. Hope this helps!

------------------
Ed Caffrey "The Montana Bladesmith"
ABS Mastersmith
www.caffreyknives.com

[This message has been edited by Ed Caffrey (edited 04-08-2001).]

 

[Bo]

Try doing a search of this forum, there have been many very good threads on this subject.