Any NYC Local sources for quality blade steel?

Two knives. Both a tad under 4" blades and in as thick stock as reasonable. First would be a simple design somewhere between a Mora classic and a pairing knife, full flat grind and distal taper, for theb wifey. Next and I feel confident in my ability would be a smaller copy of the O.R.B. by Nocturnal. How close and complicated a copy would depend on my skill.
Both meant for EDC carry and use, so I want at least a tiny bit of rust resistance that isnt in O-1 or A-2. D-2 in CPM would be nice though.

Am I thinking too ambitiously? With a the time, efforts and supply costs why wouldn't I use the "better" base material? I realize the CPM steel will be a good degree more difficult to finish but is that huge of a difference that I shouldn't even try? Heat treat would be Peters, about 25$ each for quality job right?
Maybe this should be a different topic/thread?

Thank, Alex
 
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Go for it, Alex. Sounds like you are looking at CPM D2. If I were to use that alloy, it would def be the powered version. You will most certainly notice an increase in difficulty, especially once it is hardened. Tip.....get it to the finish you want before heat treating. If you want an 800 grit finish.....get that 800 grit finish before heat treat. But don't let that issue dissuade you from trying it out!

Of course, CPM D2 needs some serious attention during heat treat, and sending it off is a great idea.
 
Yes, it is ambitious but you are in the right place to learn how to do it...enjoy the experience just realize its not too much of a money saver , especially if you factor in the time it takes.
 
Around here, 100 miles is local. I've been to NYC 6-7 times for the knife shows and felt like was in a different country, or planet...
 
Alright after much searching I am still unable to find any local source for CPM steels, ironic since it is made and milled just hours away from the city!

After work this morning I took the G train straight to Brooklyn to seek out Victor Machinery Exchange...
Thank you, Darrin Sanders for the suggestion! I bought a nice big hunk of O1, 5/32" x 18" x 3" for just $13! Along with a set of 3 mill files and 75cent handles. This place only supplies A2 by pre-order. I want to get my hands wet already and see just what I can accomplish, save the advanced stuff for later.

My only semi-concern is their O1 is by Sheffield Steel from England and does NOT list Vanadium on the paper packaging.. Analysis: Carbon .90, Managanese 1.40, Tungsten .50, Chromium .50.
Does this really mean this O1 has no Vanadium despite everything I have ever seen showing that O1 specs include Vanadium?

My wife finally recieved her temporary work authorization passport stamp pending the new Greencard from USCIS, even though she is considered a permenant resident. So I might actually have some time of work to start shaping my steel soon!

Thanks, Alex
 
Big knife show in Jersey City this weekend. Probably get some knife steel there. You can see NYC from the Hotel, but it might be too far for ya?
 
Mr Hanson I'm not sure if you are baiting or trying to sell tickets...
But no, Jersey City isn't too far, I just would rather avoid the "Garbage" State if possible.
That and I am just a working stiff stuck at work all weekend.
I can imagine a lot of those $200+ custom deals are pretty drool-inducing in person though.

Enjoy, Alex
 
Alex, I'm not baiting or trying to sell tickets. Just posting info. Being a long time knife maker & knife nut, if a large custom knife show is in my backyard I'd have to go. :cool:
 
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