. The technique: a superposition of steel
The damask blade comes from the superposition of layers of metal. Pounded, stretched and then dipped in acid – which blackens only carbon; artistic curves and patterns appear on the knife blade. This also results in great strength.
Most contemporary knives are made of two types of blades, just like the damask patterns created by Forge de Laguiole in Aubrac.
> Carbon Damascus blade
This blade is created by a more traditional forging technique. A technique that involves stacking alternating hard steel and a softer steel.
Damascus steel blade
The Damascus steel is obtained from the more recent steelmaking method: powder metallurgy. Martensitic stainless Damascus steel obtained this way is equivalent to 116 layers of forged damask.
The maintenance of a damask knife: simplicity
> Carbon Damask Laguiole
We recommend keeping the blade in a dry place. Avoid a leather sheath as it could retain moisture. If oxidation occurs, a light cleaning with talc or argan oil will do, wipe down with a soft cloth.
> Damascus steel knife
Stainless Damask requires no intensive maintenance. Just keep your Laguiole knife stowed away somewhere dry or in a leather case.