Can you make a Damascus sword?

by Rick
(Canada)

Evidence of Damascus Steel Forge Welding

I have seen beautiful knives made with blades that are called Damascus. I think they are made by forging two or more metals together by folding, heating and hammering.

My question: Is a sword too big to form this way and would the blade be strong or weak?

Thanks in advance for any answers.

Answer

Yes, some of the best Japanese and Chinese swords are made by the process now commonly referred to as Damascus. There is a page right here on the Chinese Swords Guide describing the process of making Damascus Steel. There are three videos on the page.

The original Damascus steel was famous for it's strength. Today's version is still very strong, although purists would prefer to describe it as forge welding so as not to confuse the legendary original.