Carry Damascus Steel Wherever You Go
By Desiree Weeks
A Bit About Damascus Steel
Damascus steel has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It all began with Wootz steel imported from Southern India. Wootz steel is created by melting cast iron, iron and sometimes steel with sand, glass, and ashes in a crucible. This created the ultra-high carbon crucible steel known as Wootz.
Where the name “Damascus” came from remains a bit of a mystery. Some say the name Damascus is derived from the ancient capital of Syria while others believe it’s because “damas” is the root word for “watered” in Arabic.
As time marched on, several others reproduced a crucible steel with similar characteristics to the historic original Damascus steel, which is how we came to know modern Damascus steel. It’s made from layering and forging together iron slices and several types of steel, giving it the signature flowing water look its come to be known for.
It’s that unique look paired with its surprising strength and flexibility that makes Damascus steel so coveted. While some may believe that an extra hard blade would be the way to go, it can lead the blade to be brittle and possibly break on impact. This is why having the flexibility of Damascus steel in the spine is ideal as it allows it enough give to withstand impact.
However, like most beautiful things, Damascus steel does require extra care to maintain its quality, including wiping down after every use and a regular coating of oil.
Pocket Sized Damascus Steel
Certainly what those of the past never dreamed of was a day when this beautiful steel would be able to fold up and fit into your pocket. Luckily for us, years of engineering and dedicated craftsmen means we get to live in such a time!
Here are just a few of the great pocket knives at BudK that feature a Damascus steel blade.
Kissing Crane Genuine Pearl Damascus Stiletto Knife
Every part of this Kissing Crane Genuine Pearl Damascus Stiletto Knife screams elegance. Of course, the 4 1/2" Damascus steel blade is the first thing that people are sure to notice. It’s complemented by a genuine pearl handle with brass-plated pins and bolsters. At just 5” closed, you’ll be able to carry this beautiful piece with you every day.
Timber Wolf Brass Barrister Pocket Knife
Just like the Damascus steel of its blade, the Timber Wolf Brass Barrister Pocket Knife has a uniquely eye-catching look. The 3 3/4" Damascus steel blade is smoothly accessed with the knife’s pivoting opening mechanism. The handle scales are panels of light and dark wood, which look stellar partnered with the flow of the Damascus blade, and are accented by brass pins and liner.
Shogun Green OTF Knife
Inspired by the ornate history of the Samurai, the Shogun Green OTF Knife can release its Damascus steel blade with just the slide of a trigger. The beautiful 3 1/2” Damascus steel blade is deployed from a lightweight, ridged green aluminum handle. With a slim profile and blue pocket clip, you may have just found your new everyday carry.
Timber Wolf Steam Pocket Knife
Every true Damascus steel lover will fall head over heels for the Timber Wolf Steam Pocket Knife. Both the 3 3/4" blade and handle scales are crafted of gorgeous swirling Damascus steel. Sure to be one of the most brilliantly crafted knives in your collection, the blade can be accessed with one of the brass thumbstuds.