Small blade for ID.

[Stan S.]

Originally Posted by David R

I have began proper cleaning of the blade, starting with the old coke soak, getting the first layers off, so to speak. Interestingly, a third of the width of the blade, along the edge, has come out distinctly darker, along a clearly defined line. So, edge insert or wootz, or is there a tradition that uses both. Any ideas anyone??

Hmmmm... India? We need some pictures of this "line"...

[David R]

I am not sure how well it would photograph, and do not have a decent enough camera anyway at present. However I have marked on a photo' the deliniation of the colour difference, it is distinctly darker along the edge. If it is anything like an edge insert or differential tempering it will show after a polish and etch, which is what I am doing next.

[David R]

I have polished one side, (not to well, alas the pitting is too deep to ever get it back to original finish) and given it a quick etch with hot vinegar. Not wootz, but looks very much like san mai. Definately an inserted edge. So perhaps further South and East rather than India.

[steeldust]

Hello David R. Could you post a photo of the blade after the polish and quick etch? I have never seen this done before and am interested in the process.

[David R]

I think I might have found it, here on the forum. I sat at the 'puter for hours just googling SEA knives by country, the "differential" edge made me think more in that area than India, which is "wootz" country. This is the closest I have seen to it, and it seems to fit ok. I just wish the heel of the blade was clearer.

[Stan S.]

Hmmm... Interesting stuff. You may be on to something...

[Nathaniel]

Originally Posted by David R

I think I might have found it, here on the forum. I sat at the 'puter for hours just googling SEA knives by country, the "differential" edge made me think more in that area than India, which is "wootz" country. This is the closest I have seen to it, and it seems to fit ok. I just wish the heel of the blade was clearer.

Good leg work David R. When I first saw the blade, I thought of the Meed ChaiTong and kept scrolling down the posts to see if any one mentioned it. I am no expert though.

Here is another example...with slight variation

[David R]

Hi Nathaniel, thanks,
I think your photo, pretty well confirms it. Nice piece, one of your own? Do you know what the grip is made of, and is the ferrule open at the blade end or closed....'cos now I have a hilt to make. Do you have pics of any others to share?