Originally Posted by
PierreR
Hmmm. More prone to rusting? There are a few factors that can reduce that. First I will bring your attention to old razors, any Sheffield, Soligen, Swiss steel carbon blade from the late 1800's, early 1900's, typically were made from simple carbon steels, similar to let's say 1084, or 1095. With proper care, these have survived 100 years or more, without major rusting. Patina yes, but orange/red rust, with care, no.
Another point which make rusting easier to prevent, is finish. If the carbon blade is left satin, or with fine scratches, rust can easily take hold. If the blade is bright, or polished to say a mirror finish, it is tougher for rust to start. Proper routine during and after getting a blade wet, can all but eliminate rust from starting.
Environmental's are tougher to deal with, but can be mitigated. Properly dry a blade and oil prior to storage, or a silicon sock, to impede moisture may be necessary in high humidity conditions. If we are talking knife blades, sheath storage, is an invitation for rust. A damp blade, has no way to shed moisture, and rusting is all but a given.
So, that brings us to damascus, or pattern welded steel. Choice of metals, for example, 15N20, contains nickel. The bright lines in the pattern. This is a high carbon steel, but with the addition of nickel, there is added stain resistance. Next is finish. With a nice polish, rusting is controllable. I also coat my blades with Conservators wax. Even if you use mineral oil, or Ballistoil (spelling?) you can easily fight it.
In this video, you can see the finish on these Damascus blades. A photo can't capture it...