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[Jared Stenoien]

I'm currently enrolled in a basic blacksmithing course at my community college and got permission to make a blade as my final project. I thought it'd be cool to try and do one with a hamon. First of all is this too ambitious for a first time? If not I was thinking about going with W2, is this a good choice and who has the best prices? Thanks for your help.


edit to add: I was also thinking about using brine as the quenchant. I like what I've read about it, faster then water but at the same time less stressful because of the decreased vapor jacket. Is there a reason more people don't use brine?

 

[Jim Rehrer]

I don't forge but I do my own Heat treating on my carbon blades. Ive gotten some nice temper lines on 1095 ... it takes alot of hand sanding to really bring it out but its worth it..

as for the brine I believe that you still have a higher chance of cracking a blade with brine compared to say quenchent oil...and if your going to put that much time into a blade why chance it if it can be avoided.

 

[A C Richards]

W-2 is a great choice. Don Hanson III at sunfishforge.com has some W-2 at about $3.50/lb. I think he only has 1.5 inch round stock though. This would be a lot of hammering by hand. 1095 and w-1 as well as 1050, 1060 and 1070 will work too. Getting a good Hamon may be a bit ambitious but give it a try. Brine is good and actually less stressful than water. If you are going to invest your time I would suggest getting 5 gallons of parks 50 from Darren Ellis. It works great.

Have Fun and good luck

Chuck

 

[Jared Stenoien]

Just called Don, thanks. :thumbup: