Forging

Jeremy Evans

Jeremy Evans

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Sep 8, 2003
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Here are 2 little knives I forged out oh 1045 1/2 inch round bar a few days ago it's the first time I have tried to forge any blades

I have a question. I would like to order some better steel and was wondering what sizes would be good for a small knife with around a 4 inch blade maybe 1/8 inch thick
 
3/4 inch is an all around good size for blades in that range. There is a good bit of stock in that size as well. I purchase 5160 in 3/4 from a spring shop; they are cutoffs.

Nice work on the two. You seem to have an eye for forging. Fred
 
Well I have forged a few other blades out of some scrap I had laying around a few years ago. What I meant when I said it was my first time with those was that I used the 1/2 round bar. I will look into to getting some 3/4. I have never used good knife steel butt I will be getting some soon. I would like to get better at forging.
I do have some 5160 in 3/4 round butt I think I'll save that for latter.
Thanks for the help.
 
I think it depends on the pattern that you want to forge. If you are going to put a handle on the blade I think some 1/8" by 1" flat bar would be the easiest. If you are going to make some more of those blacksmiths knives with the round bar in the handles 3/8" rod should draw out to make a nice 1/8" blade. Check out some W1 or O1 drill rod.
Also garage door spring will draw out to make a small knife. I've read that some shops will save the broken springs when they replace them.
 
You can get W1 from fastenal in about any size you want. It's a fine steel for knives. Just big enough to get the size blade you want is the right size. If you don't have a power hammer or press, that is! You can squish clay and see how is plays out. It moves about the same as steel, just LOTS easier! Lol. What hammer you use and technique make a big difference also. 3/4" will make most anything in a hunting knife, but you can get by with less If you need to.
 
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