Wootz Damascus is also sometimes called “crucible Damascus,” which is a reference to how iron ingots were first melted in crucibles along with other materials before they were forged into blades and other items. [2] X Research source The term “wootz” may be a misspelling of the Kannada word “wook,” which describes a melted or fused steel.
Stainless Damascus steel can also be created using stainless steel rather than high-carbon steel. [4] X Research source
Alternatively, you can melt your metals in a crucible to mingle the ingredients. [8] X Research source At this point, you’ll want to make a temporary handle to use while you proceed with forging.
This is a relatively low temperature when it comes to forging, and is needed to keep the various types of metal in the forged steel distinct. [10] X Research source
Quenching heated steel alters its strength and flexibility, and is key to reinforcing metals and making them suitable for use as things like blades. [11] X Research source
Tempering toughens metals and lessens brittleness. [12] X Research source It also relieves internal stresses in the metal to prevent breakages, which is key for Damascus steel since it’s made of multiple types of metal. [13] X Research source
Repeat the acid-and-baking soda process if you’d like a deeper, more striking etch.
Europeans created a number of myths about the production of Damascus steel. Because the Damascus metalworkers were secretive about their methods, rumors were spread about the forging processes of the steel. Some said it was magical because it was quenched in “dragon blood,” and other strange liquids.
You can see many examples of ancient Damscus-steel weapons and armor in a number of museums, and research on these items is ongoing to study the makeup and forging methods of wootz Damascus steel. [21] X Research source
