How to apply a forced patina to a blade.



How to apply a forced patina to a blade:


In this article I will show you how to apply a forced patina to a blade.

What is a patina?

A patina is a protective coating that forms on carbon steel. It can form naturally over time as
a result of contact with acids in food (food prep), or by coming into contact with tannin in wood.
Patinas can also be 'forced' onto a blade. this is done by dipping the blade in boiling vinegar, leaving in acid for 24 hours, or pushing the blade into the middle of  an orange or a potato.

How I forced a patina onto my blade:

  1. First I sanded the blade with 180 grit wet & dry sandpaper.
  2. Then I cleaned the blade to remove any dirt, grease, silicon carbide (from sandpaper). 
  3. Then I polished the blade with T-Cut metal polish.
  4. Finally I cut half way through a pear and placed my blade within it.
  5. 24 hours later the process was complete.
  6. I rinsed the knife with hot water to remove any remaining acids.

Swallow Bushcraft.

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