THE LEGEND OF THE DAMASCUS SWORD - HISTORY AND TECHNOLOGY

Abstract

The Damascus sword is a saber that was the weapon of choice of the Muslim medieval armies. This weapon is closely related to Islamic civilization. Its great mechanical properties, simbolic value, the art and technical skill necessary to its production, as much as its pleasant wavy pattern turned it a legend. Its main raw material was high carbon crucible steels. This paper debates the probable production processes and the mechanism by which Damascus pattern are formed.

Keywords

• Damascus sword; Damascus steel; Wootz steel; Crucible steel.