Russian Wootz

[Lew]

Originally Posted by ariel

That's interesting: we seem to go back to the old question about the supposed advantages of wootz.
If well-treated steel can do the same "parlor tricks" , then where is the superiority of wootz, especially taking into account its brittleness? The horror stories of Forumites about a priceless wootz sword falling on the floor and shattering made me wanting to put pillows around the "weapon room".
Seriously, with the exception of the esthetic factor, what, in your opinion, is the big deal?

Ariel

Modern wootz is a good steel but straight 0-1 OR 52100 tool steel is better for everyday chores. Wootz looks pretty but once you start using it it will discolor rust or loose its pattern after time. Most modern knifemakers just give you a bunch of hype when it comes to these alleged super steels.

Lew