Sgian Don't

[ccga3359]

That's what I was looking for but these are a bit pricey though. Those Damascus steel blades are also intriquing also. How is the pattern produced?
Oh, and thanks Phil.

[The Supreme Canuck]

How is the pattern produced?

Two pieces of steel - one with high carbon content and one with low - are placed one on top of the other. The blacksmith then folds the two pieces of steel over each other again and again.

Or so is my understanding. I absolutely expect to be corrected.

[twinkletowz]

I thought that you handled yourself really well given the tenacity of that nice young lady.

[LK-13]

Two pieces of steel - one with high carbon content and one with low - are placed one on top of the other. The blacksmith then folds the two pieces of steel over each other again and again.

Or so is my understanding. I absolutely expect to be corrected.

actually your quite correct.
alternating pieces of Steel of differing grades is forge welded, then folded or twisted, forge welded again and so on.
the differing grades of steel give the finished blade the necessary hardness to take and hold an edge but leave it flexible enough not to break under hard use or battle.

the dark and light alternating grain look is brought out of the blade by treating it with a mild acid solution.

[AllenJ]

Two pieces of steel - one with high carbon content and one with low - are placed one on top of the other. The blacksmith then folds the two pieces of steel over each other again and again.

Or so is my understanding. I absolutely expect to be corrected.

You are pretty close

Though I really hate Wikipedia, this will give you a general indication of how its done:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus_steel

[The Supreme Canuck]

You are pretty close

Though I really hate Wikipedia, this will give you a general indication of how its done:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damascus_steel

Well, thankee.