ATS-34 and rusting

[Hagar]

I just made a paring knife for my wife, and she washed it and let it drip dry. It started to show some rust spots.
I have not seen ATS-34 do this before.
The blade is ats-34 done to 59 RC, only taken to 320 grit.
any ideas on why the rust spots so easily?

 

[Matt Harildstad]

How was the blade heat treated? Heat treat affects the stain resistance of ATS34 quite a bit. Please see my webpage for Hitachi's recommendations.

------------------
www.planet.eon.net/~matth
matth@planet.eon.net

 

[george tichbourne]

The 320 grit finish is the culprit. The scratches retain the moisture long enough for it to begin rust. Maximum rust resistance is achieved with mirror finishes.

------------------
george
www.tichbourneknives.com
sales@tichbourneknives.com

 

[Don G]

I had a bead blasted tactical folder made out of ATS-34 that rusted quite easily.

 

[Hagar]

thanks for the help!
I believe it to be the finish. If my poor failing memory serves correctly I had a bead blasted blade of ats-34 that also rusted easily.
Matt, glad to see another canadian here!!!
Too bad you are from Edmonton. LOL
I am in Calgary!

------------------
There is no suh thing as "good enough", either your work is good or it is not. How is your work?