Brian: Instead of using ferric chloride, you might want to try phosphoric acid. It is sold by Orchard Supply Hardware under the name "metal etch" I have used it for many years to etch layer welded blades, especially moro swords. I think it gives a much better look to the steel, a silver and black look. I used ferric on wootz until just recently. I tried phosphoric on a wootz piece and the results were outstanding. Instead of diluting it ,use it right out of the bottle as i have found it really dosen't need to be diluted. It also helps if the blade is warmed with a propane torch. Just warm enough so you can't hold your hand on it. It makes the high carbon areas stand out better. Ferric chloride always seems to give a gray-green etch which i dont think looks as good as a phosphoric etch. I also have never had a problem with using straight tap water. Possibly my area of the country (Central Calif) might have different or less dissolved minerals than where Bill lives (Atlanta). That might make a big difference in the kook of the final etch.....Dave
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