Step 1
Degrease the steel with denatured alcohol to remove any factory finishes. This is essential since it allows the heat and chemicals to penetrate the steel.
Step 2
Dig a pit approximately 24 inches deep and long enough to contain the steel. There should be 6 inches between the metal and the side of the pit.
Step 3
Fill the pit with charcoal and light it. Allow the charcoal to burn until the coals are uniformly gray.
Step 4
Wrap heavy gauge wire around the steel to create a handle that will stick out of the fire.
Step 5
Rake the coals flat, place the steel in the coals and cover with fresh coals. Allow the coals to settle as they burn. Bake the steel for three hours, replacing coal as needed.
Step 6
Remove the steel from the fire and hang to cool in an outdoor location protected from inclement weather. Let the steel hang for at least three to four days.
Step 7
Coat the finished steel with paste wax to protect the finish.