Beginners Question

[Wild Thing]

I am apologising in advance to all of you experienced people on the forum, who are probably going to roll their eyes and think we've done this before.
I have searched on the forum and can't find an answer, so i'm going to ask.

I recently traded and got my hands on a damascus blade. It needs handling and the blade needs cleaning up and polishing.

Pics below:

My question is this.

I read somewhere on the web that you have to be careful what you use to clean up and polish a damascus blade because you can damage the patterning, is this true, what do you use to clean, and how do you polish a damascus blade ??

BTW, I have put a quick handle wrap on the blade and I am thinking of putting a thin handle of ash on this as it is a wide handle, and I feel that a big handle would make it uncomfortable in my hands.

Well, there you go, all suggestions or help appreciated.

Thanks

Phill

 

[lannyman8]

you can polish the blade as normal, or even go through the very fine grits of sand paper, however this will remove the "ETCH" which is what makes the lines visabel, but you could "RE-ETCH" after a good clean up.....

if it was me i would re-etch anyway, as this has been damaged by use from the looks of it, could just be the pic's though....???

you can buy the chemicals from evil-bay in powder/pellet form, but they can be dangerous to children and adults if the correct protective clothing and gloves are not worn....

if you choose to have a go PM me and i will try and sort you out full details and a how too.....

regards.

chris.

 

[mountainm]

I wonder if vinegar, or Cola would etch? Just slower?

 

[dwardo]

The pattern comes back by its self on my damascus blade just through normal use. I am sure a little lemon juice would speed it up if you are in a hurry.

 

[GollIfanAteb]

spirit vinegar warmed up will do the etch nicely...

 

[lannyman8]

you will need a stronger acid to get the black coating back to a good standard, either way you should polish well first before you attempt anything, then give it a good clean with meths to remove any grease....

good luck with it, the pattern is very nice so its worth doing.....

 

[Wild Thing]

Thanks Chaps

Lannyman8 I jave PM'd you.

Regards

Phill