It depends on the steel, but I find that CPM154 etches nicely with ferric chloride... a 3/1 mixture of distilled water and FC works well for me. I don't have much experience with etching other types of stainless, so your miles may vary with some of the others...
Hey guys! New member here from Orlando, Fl. Love the balance between form and function on well made chef's tools... Found this site while searching google for forced patinas. Though my time is usually quite limited, I look forward to learning a ton more!