Uhhh
Before discounting the belt machine and paper wheels , perhaps find out how that original edge was put on there , unless all the knifemakers are doing it wrong.
If you read my post you would see that I stated the fact of the belts being used in the knife making process is well needed.
I`ll try not to argue these points much but you state that Damascus isn`t different...You couldn`t possibly be more incorrect. Most knife companies use the standard stainless steel for their blades. Who knows how the blades are forged or tempered. In fact, if you call some of these American knife makers, they will not have a clue about these attributes. The funny thing is that some of the U.S.A. knife makers that most people praise as being "the best" are actually junk.
As far the Damascus, Damascus is the absolute finest metals in the knife making and sword making industry. There are many different combinations of metals used in making the Damascus steel and even the cheapest metals such as O-1 tool steel, S-2 shock steel will beat any stainless steel or standard carbon steel blades by miles.
One of my favorites is the mixture of ATS-34 and 12C27 Sandvik steels. This Damascus billet not only will have a hardness of 58-60c and at the same time one of the most flexible steels but also is absolutely beautiful.
The top of the line, in my opinion, is the use of 1095 steel and Glorieta meteorite. You will pay dearly for this steel as it is the steel of Kings.
The best all around combination that is superior to most other mixtures is the use of 1095 & 15N20. This employs the use of nickel and is a mid-ranged steel in price.
There is a 416 stainless that is used for some applications of Damascus but this is not one of my picks.
Most of these combinations are folded between 180 and 600 times, it varies on the metal, and maker.
My favorite mass producer of Damascus knives is Boker. Boker is also one of, if not the favorite knife maker of choice.
You spoke poorly of stones. There are many different variations of grit in stones. I guarantee you that I can repair a broken machete or sling blade and polish it to a razor edge that will shave your face with my stones. This is another subject that you can research if you like. I only use stones for my swords,machetes,knives,etc. for honing. I may rarely make use of a flat file if the damage is extensive on some of the heavier guaged steel. I never use ceramics...AT ALL and I stay away from the senthetics and/or diamond stones.
Truthfully, the biggest problem that I see in people when it comes to sharpening steels is the lack of knowledge. It is a skill and it takes a few years to master the skill. In Japan, there is a title for a steel sharpener once he reaches the master level. To my knowledge, there is only one caucasion in the world that holds that title. You can find him on youtube with a little searching.
In short, these are only a few of the more common combinations used in the making of Damascus steel. No different???? I beg to differ. I have been in this business for quite some time. I`ve bumped into the statements that you have made from beginner knife collectors 2 or 3 times but if you stick with it and expand your vocabulary and education on the subject you will know most of these facts as second nature. If a person can sharpen steel he can sharpen steel. Whether it be with a concrete block and newspaper or a Japanese whetstone. But there is no getting away from the art of the process with the use of two hands. And, as I`ve stated, never ever will you ever see me placing one of my knives nor a customers knife, sword etc. on a belt sander nor any other such machined device.
