This is just too good not to share.
This is the blade I got out of the twist I posted a few weeks back:


It's really pretty cool.
This is about a short 9 inches. I'm at the computer and don't feel like running back out to the shop.
it will be a Cowboy Bowie come Blade time.
It's got some character I did not expect. That super tight twist gave it chatoyance that almost makes it look like three distinct bars like I did a multiple bar blade - but it's just a single twist.
This is just etched with some oil on it.
The first picture is outside and the others are inside with some lights:

Ooooooh, man...that is soooooo cool     .  How many layers was that? Was the original twist bar then drawn out on your press? Just wondering if it was more randomly "beat out" during forging if that somewhat consistent pattern of chatoyance would change?

Sorry for all the questions and rambling. Thanks for sharing this piece.

Jeremy

324 layers. I have always liked a high layer twist.
I think it was drawn out equally on both press and hammer.
If it was drawn out 100% either hammer or press, it may have changed the chatoyance. But I am thinking part of the character here is that it was twisted at high heat and all in about 10 seconds.

Thanks for the info, Karl. A whole lot of the Damascus stuff and all the patterns are a ways above my pay grade....but I sure do like getting to look at stuff like this   .

Jeremy

It does kinda look like a multi bar blade.......crazy shimmer you got going on there.    

Looking forward to the finished photo's.
Darcy  

Outstanding effect on that blade Karl. Can't wait to see the finished knife.

Oh yea, can't wait to see the finished pics Karl. You may have to build a special holder for that one or it's gonna dance right off you table.  

That is definitely going to get some serious attention at your table. Can't wait for the finished package.  

Think your on to something, pretty cool looking blade! Can't wait to see it finished.

Thanks for the comments everybody.
Once I get the knife built I will hot-blue the blade and that will increase the contrast and chatoyance even more.
Scary to think about it.

Super sweet Karl!! Can't wait to se the finished blade!

Karl, I am waiting to see this one finished. I love it already!

Steve
---------
Potomac Forge
Member, W.F. Moran Jr. Museum & Foundation
ABS AP

Yes sir! That pretty! That sure makes for an interesting knife and I see a deep discussion in our future.    

Wow Karl, it almost looks like you jeweled it!
Im looking forward to seeing this one come together

Reminds me of peacock feathers or knotty pine.  Gonna be a nice one for sure.