A2 tool steel

[Jeff Clark]

I really like A2 steel, but I don't consider it to have much corrosion resistance. When I sharpen A2 using a water stone I can smell and notice corrosion of the swarf particles that I hone off. Take a look at this thread to see what can happen with extreme abuse. http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=637170

 

[James_Terrio]

Take a look at this thread to see what can happen with extreme abuse. http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php?t=637170

I don't think that's too shabby for a knife that was outside for a whole fall/winter. Looks like it will clean up pretty quickly. I could live with that.

 

[T. Hendrickson]

Yeah ! A metal cutting bandsaw and some patience !

unfortunately, my porta-band can't cut lengths over 6" or so. How much do you think say a machine shop or some such would charge?

 

[Leu Custom]

unfortunately, my porta-band can't cut lengths over 6" or so. How much do you think say a machine shop or some such would charge?

I have no idea. Perhaps one of these guys that live nearby you would be so kind as to do it for you for the cost of a blade or something. Would almost seem easier to buy 3 - 1.5" pieces !

 

[Leu Custom]

Guess they don't sell it in various widths ! Nevermind !

 

[T. Hendrickson]

it's really too bad, that's a terrific price! I suppose I'll go with another supplier. Thanks!

 

[Jeff Clark]

Hi JT, I consider what happened to the A2 knife I mentioned as extreme abuse. A2 is my type of steel. On the other hand so is O1.

 

[James_Terrio]

Gotcha, Jeff, I understand. As for me, corrosion resistance is among the least of my worries. I'd rather do/recommend a little more maintenance than give up other characteristics. I suspect you agree, based on your choice of A2 and especially O1. I don't think I'd mind cleaning up even an abused knife like the one you posted for a customer, as part of warranty coverage. The OP stated that the knife has been used and abused pretty hard, and still works well. That's much more important to me.

 

[sgmtino]

got my steel from the online metal supply and had David at great lakes waterjet cut my blades out for me he did a great job and great price

 

[Steve Hayden]

Having worked with D2, A2 and S30V for several years, I think A2 is right up close tothe others in edge retention. As a machine tool steel, it will not keep up with them, but the usage and wear on knife blade is not the same intensity as machine shop applications. It took me a few years to come to this conclusion and it was based on performance of hunting, kitchen and EDC knives.

 

[James_Terrio]

... had David at great lakes waterjet cut my blades out for me he did a great job and great price

Just got a small batch in from Dave, I'll definitely order from him again. :thumbup: I like the way you designed your tang cut-outs, too.

Thanks for your comments, Steve. That's the kind of input I need.

 

[sgmtino]

credit for tang cutouts goes to David he worked that up himself awesome guy to deal with very friendly too