Making Damascus Steel Blades from A to Z.

Pattern-welded blades are among the most beautiful and durable creations ever to emerge from the bladesmith's forge, from the welding of the starting billet to the final assembly of the completed blade. Opening secrets forging basic, precise patterns and complex designs so that any bladesmith with the desire to learn this demanding yet immensely satisfying skill can produce blades that are both intriguing works of art worthy of any collection.
With this guide, novice blacksmiths and bladesmiths have a practical and budget-conscious approach to forging their own Damascus steel knives. Starting with the basics, this practical guide shows how easy it can be to build a simple Damascus-grade forge; forge Damascus steel into different patterns; and forge a blade into shape, harden it, and turn it into a finished knife. Sketches, step-by-step instructions, and tools and materials lists help you prepare and work through the project methodically and safely.
Complete with tips for sharpening Damascus steel blades and insights on the metallurgy behind this special steel, this guide is ideal for the metalworking hobbyist. These blades are beautiful, durable, and well. worth the time, effort, and skills required to make them, They are the greatest attribute to a smith's skill, a skill that is well worth the patience, frustration, and tribulation involved in its mastery.
ContentsPrefaceThe Workshop for the DamascusMaterialsForge Welding Damascus SteelDamascus Steel: The Pattern-Welded BladeForge-Welding Damascus SteelBasic Patterns for Pattern-Welded SteelThe Composite PatternsWelded Cable - Wire DamascusDamascus PatternsGrinding the Blade of Damascus SteelHeat Treating and Tempering Damascus SteelFinishing the Blade of Damascus SteelViking Broadsword s of Damascus SteelReproducing Classic SwordsCompoundsBibliography