The No. 12 has formed its patina entirely naturally. I bought it specifically for the inaugural Giants of June challenge.
Looks great. Doesn't the oil make the wood swell and make the blade feel really tight?
When I want to force a patina I use hot apple cider vinegar in a plastic vitamin bottle tall enough to immerse the whole blade.
When I want to force a patina I use hot apple cider vinegar in a plastic vitamin bottle tall enough to immerse the whole blade. I just stick it in the microwave for about a minute or until it starts to boil. The longer you keep it immersed the darker the patina. You can see bubbles coming off the blade as it works. This gives a nice even patina if protection from rust is your goal.