No, Damascus steel is not exclusive to samurai swords. Damascus steel is a type of steel characterized by its distinctive patterns and exceptional properties, including sharpness and durability. It has been historically associated with various types of blades, including swords from different cultures.

Samurai swords, specifically the traditional Japanese swords known as katana, were typically made using a different type of steel called tamahagane. Tamahagane is a specific type of steel produced in Japan through a traditional smelting process using iron sand and charcoal.

While Damascus steel and tamahagane are different materials, both have been highly regarded for their quality and performance in blades. Both types of steel were prized for their ability to create sharp and resilient edges, though they originated from different regions and had distinct production methods.

It's worth noting that modern interpretations of Damascus steel can be used in the construction of various types of swords, including katana-style blades. These modern reproductions aim to replicate the aesthetic and functional qualities associated with historical Damascus steel, but they are not the same as traditional Japanese swords made with tamahagane.