Blade Thickness for Neck Knife?

J

jawilder

Joined
Jun 27, 2006
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I started making neck knives in 3/32 O1 because that's what I had on hand then switched to 7/64 O1. I'm now considering switching steel to 1084, 1095, or 52100 and have to choose either 3/32" or 1/8". My necker blades are only 1" wide and most have a full flat grind.

What is the general consensus on the proper thickness of a neck knife? And which steel would you prefer out of 1084, 1095, or 52100?

Here are a few of my knives in question:
WilderNecker01.jpg


20130409_181321_zps33333367.jpg
 
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My $0.02

I am more worried about the thickness behind the edge, and the difference in bevel angle of 1/32" on a 1"-wide FFG knife is only ~1 degree per side. Personally, I wouldn't notice a difference in cutting performance between those spines, esp. since a secondary edge bevel is likely to be added. As such, I'd opt for the slightly more robust blade on a neck knife since this provides a slightly wider surface for thumb-pressure and users can always take off material to make the blade thinner whereas they cannot put it back on.

Of the steels mentioned, I'd prefer 52100 - ball-bearing steel vs spring steel on a knife (esp. a small knife) ANY day :thumbup:

EDIT: that second knife is dead sexy. nice work :thumbup:
 
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Hey Jason

I'm not a maker but as you know, I am a buyer. Personally I love O1 steel but if you so feel the need I change what type you use, I'd certainly like to see 52100.

A variation in thickness is fine with me since sometimes I reach for something thin and slicey and other times I want something a little more robust. Maybe alternating between blade thicknesses depending on shape an style is an avenue to look down.

Keep up the good work bro!
 
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