Dykem and Grainger

[zzyzzogeton]

In wandering through the threads on how various people make knives, I saw several references to the use of Dykem and that their source was Grainger.

I decided to get some in preparation of finally trying to make my first knife by the grinding method (shoulder won't handle forging). Not knowing any better, I chose to get the high temp stuff.

When I went to the Austin, TX Grainger store today, the clerk told me that they had none on hand because Grainger is discontinuing handling it but could order it from the warehouse. Dykem is still going to be out there but not at Grainger after they run out of their current warehouse quantities.

Was not smart enough to ask if they are discontinuing carrying only the high temp line or all of them. I will ask when I pick up the order.

So if anyone uses Grainger as their source and are getting low, you might want to consider getting some soon or start looking for a new source.

 

[james terrio]

Grainger is not the only distributor of tools and equipment. You have a computer, use it.

 

[zzyzzogeton]

NSS

As I said in my post "If anyone uses....". It was a heads up so that people who do use them would know to start looking for a new source and not walk into a store expecting to buy it and walk out to go finish that project that has a deadline of "X" hours.

And as far as using computers goes, let's see??? The first time I used one was in 1974. Built a few from scratch/ Killed a whole lot more. Been a few changes since then, but I'm keeping up pretty good. You might have noticed the reference to looking through the threads? Could only have seen them on a computer or computer-like device such as smart phones and tablets. My psychic telepathy has been on the fritz lately.

And yes, I do know how to do a google search to find stuff. Already found 5 other sources in Texas within a 50 mile drive prior to making the post, which is how far it is to the nearest Grainger.

 

[wbeatty]

And as far as using computers goes, let's see??? The first time I used one was in 1974. Built a few from scratch/ Killed a whole lot more. Been a few changes since then, but I'm keeping up pretty good. You might have noticed the reference to looking through the threads? Could only have seen them on a computer or computer-like device such as smart phones and tablets. My psychic telepathy has been on the fritz lately..

Ahhh the good old days, remember floppies? Im not talking 3.5" or even 5 1/4" ... Im talking the 9 inchers.
Dykem is pretty common stuff, you can find it at auto part stores, now days I would not even waste my time or gas to drive into town to get anything like that. I Just toss it in with my next order from enco , mcmaster car, msc or amazon.
but thanks for the heads up.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Thanks for letting us know about Granger and DyKem.

There are many sources for it, including all the knife suppliers. I used it in my earlier days, but now just use a Sharpie pen and draw on the steel.


This thread has probably no other input needed, so unless anyone has a unique and local source for Dykem, it is probably best to let it roll off the page.

 

[zzyzzogeton]

Easy to make happen - will close it.