So, Trying to Etch a Shamshir

[Atlantia]

Use a weaker solution and paint it on. No need to immerse.

[kai]

I'm with Gene - no need to soak a Arab/Persian/Indian blade for etching: This just increases the risk of corroding the surface which should stay smooth.

If it is a wootz blade, treatment need to be specialized and usually very short (seconds).

If it is a pattern-welded blade, swift wiping with ferric chloride will bring out the pattern (retry several times if the contrast or pattern doesn't show nicely). If it looks too bold, try wiping with hot vinegar after a quick repolish (by hand - no power tools!).

Regards,
Kai

[A.alnakkas]

thanks all! plenty of good ideas. Ibrahim, I think it might be dangerous trying to etch in a metal container? Probably if its copper or anything weaker than steel it would be damaged.

I think etching without emmersing is probably my best option but what kind of etchant should I be using? I have access to Ferric acid but never used it before. The blade shows some faint patterns but I cant be sure what it is, thats why I want to etch.

[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by A.alnakkas

thanks all! plenty of good ideas. Ibrahim, I think it might be dangerous trying to etch in a metal container? Probably if its copper or anything weaker than steel it would be damaged.

I think etching without emmersing is probably my best option but what kind of etchant should I be using? I have access to Ferric acid but never used it before. The blade shows some faint patterns but I cant be sure what it is, thats why I want to etch.

Purpose built etching tray. I use one for immersing swords in coke or vinegar...Hot vinegar is as agresive an etchant I have used... I never tried the ferric treatment...Using a tray saves a fortune in materials as it is only 2 inch deep and ideal for the job... and avoids the gymnastics required for other methods like painting it on which as you know does have its issues in this heat ! I repeat that I'm only talking about the soft option coke and vinegar (which you still have to be careful with as it can be a bit tricky if used hot... I use it cold) agreed no need for power tools at all. Did anyone ever use lemon salt?
Ibrahiim al Balooshi.