Wanting a go at Damascus

I didn't reply because I don't make damascus, but since this fell off the first page without someone more knowledgeable chiming in...

I would not recommend mixing O1 with a file steel like that. The steels should have similar HT response. O1 is an oil quench, files are most likely a water quench. Instead, I would suggest you try O1 and L6. They have a similar HT, and have a nice contrast.

The saw blade you mention may be L6, apparently that used to be a common material for that, but they say it isn't used much any more, so I wouldn't count on it.
 
I appreciate the info. I was wondering what qualities needed to go together to make Damascus.
I ended up dropping the subject due to the fact that I wont be able to make it for some time. As the forge I'm building is not capable of welding.

My question was me being over zealous.

If anyone wants to chime in on any other qualities that should be thought of when making Damascus that would be great.

I'm going to keep the majority of my inquiries in check till I have the ability to make some.
 
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I did not respond because I generally don't reply to inquiries from folks without a profile . It is hard to know how to answer the question when you have no idea about the person asking. Filling out your profile will help us help you.
Stacy
 
I totally understand Stacy.

I'm basically a noob and was getting ahead of myself.

I updated my profile as I should have when I joined this site. And hopefully in the future when i have some forgings under my belt and a forge capable of welding. I'll be back here bother you all with more questions
 
Chris,

It never hurts to start collecting knowledge at an early stage. I studied damascus for quite a while before I welded up my first billet. For what it's worth, it paid off and my very first billet ever turned into this:

DSC02853mod.jpg


I've been very bad about adding info, but I've got a website with information about pattern welding.

Now, a question for you. What makes you say that the forge you're building won't be capable of welding? If you're not done with it yet, you can still fix that you know ;)

-d
 
well being on the budget that I'm on. I can only make a 2 Brick forge. My future plans do include upgrading to a forge like Rays Mini-Forge
trying to stay portable is a big thing

I'm doubting the 2 Bricker will weld so thats what I meant.
 
BTW that is an exquisite knife

see thats the type of knives I want to make

every since i first seen Damascus I have been intrigued
 
It's a process.... You don't have to know how to forge to forge weld but it's helpful.

Learn to make a clean knife then ramp up the difficulty.

If you really want to aim toward making damascus then set short, middle and long term goals with each set of goals building to the next set down the road. It'll help guide your study materials and equipment purchases as you progress in the craft.

Good luck and welcome to BF.
 
Welcome to the Bladeforums.Thanks for filling out your profile.
It also was good to know that yo will be working with a two-bricker for the time being.
California has a lot of makers and several good shows and hammer-ins within a short days drive. Try hooking up with an experienced maker and gaining some of the skills you want to learn.
Stick around, don't be afraid to ask questions, and read-read-read.
Stacy
 
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