There are several types of blade finishes that you may want to consider when buying a new knife. Based on how you plan to use the knife, blade finishes can offer a variety of advantages. Here is a quick guide explaining each blade finish and its benefits:
Mirror Polished Finish: Mirror finishes are created by polishing the metal into a highly reflective surface by hand. Although this type of finishing requires more labor than bead-blasted or anodized finishes, it offers better corrosion resistance due to its smoothness; however, it can be easily scratched when used in tactical fieldwork situations. Due to the difficulty of creating this type of final polish, blades can be very expensive.
Blasted Finish: In blasted finishes, glass or ceramic beads are fired at high pressure against a metal surface, resulting in an even gray finish. Due to its matte appearance, the blast reduces reflection and glare as well as creates more micro-abrasions, which reduce the rust resistance of steel under certain conditions. If left in humid conditions overnight, a blasted blade can sustain corrosion.
Hand Satin Finish: Hand satin finishing is a process that involves sanding the blade in one direction using an abrasive of increasing fineness. Knives with this type of finishing may be sold at high prices to upscale, high-end collectors. The finer the abrasives and the more even the lines, the cleaner it looks. The satin finish is also available for handles and fittings, which enhance their appearance. While this technique requires time, it’s worth it when you’re investing in an expensive collector’s item!
Coated Finish: The blade on your knife is a vital part of what makes it so valuable to you. A blade’s finish will determine how well it will protect itself from corrosion and wear. A coating will likely scratch off with heavy use, which would mean recoating at some point; higher-quality finishes are bonded electrically, chemically, or thermally, rather than just being painted on, which makes them less likely to scratch as easily with everyday use.
Brushed Finish: For an attractive finishing blade, brushed finishes are a cost-effective option. No expensive handwork is required to create satin patterns, just abrasive wheels! As a result, the finished product still has the same functioning finish as if it were done by hand, but with none of the time and effort involved.
Stonewashed finish: In comparison with other finishes, stonewashed blades have a less reflective surface, which is more durable. As it can hide scratches better, it lasts for a long time without looking worn or damaged. Depending on the type of finish you desire – whether you want it shiny or reflective – an acid wash will make the knife darker with softer features while brushing will make all the scratches stand out
The coatings on your blade can make the difference between a corrosion-free, reflective surface and one that is dulled by rust. An adequate finish will not last nearly as long as a quality coating – so you should decide what kind of finish you want for your knife before choosing what kind of steel will be best for its construction!
Your blade finish will not only affect the look of your knife but also how it performs. When considering a purchase, take into account what you’ll be using your knife for most frequently to help choose which type is best suited for you and your needs. Whether you’re looking for an aesthetic or practical choice in blade finishes, we have options that are perfect for you!