

Through a process known as "vapor deposition" a chemical process bonds the TiN to the steel on a molecular level, resulting in a surface coating that can be more than twice as hard as steel. However, our reason for pitting the steel relates directly to the finish we have chosen, Titanium Nitride (TiN). As it pertains to the Axxis, we've opted for long exposure and heavy pitting.īut why induce heavy pitting? Isn't that one of the adverse side effects of rust and doesn't it expose the metal to further corrosion? Yes, this is true, especially if the metal is not coated with some protective oil, sealant, or finish following the etching. When brought into contact with each other, the result can be a light discoloration of the metal, or even heavy pitting depending on the duration of the chemical reaction. The etching itself is the effect of a chemical reaction between the steel and the acid. However, the specific acid selected depends on the metal being etched and the desired degree of pitting one hopes to achieve.

There are many effective ways to acid etch a blade ranging from common household vinegar, all the way up through sulfuric acid.

Today, the process is far more mainstream, and can even be done right at home. And so it is in our decision to acid etch every Axxis.Īcid etching found its origins in the renaissance when artists would use the process to emblazon armor and weapons with fantastical designs. No we believe that form should follow function.

And while we always strive to make our tools visually appealing, we would never make a design choice based purely on looks. Fortunately, Bone Daddy Blade WerX isn't like most knife companies. It looks good, but provides little function. Traditionally, most knife companies use acid etching to enhance the visual aesthetic of their differential heat treatment, or to distinguish different layers of steel in a Damascus blade.
