Getting the lines on W-2

Another awesome blade, Matt. On top of how pretty they are, they are great users, too.
 
sweet blade! I'm new to the knife making scene, how do you make the line in the middle? Is that a type of damascus -like fold pattern? THanks.
 
brub said:
sweet blade! I'm new to the knife making scene, how do you make the line in the middle? Is that a type of damascus -like fold pattern? THanks.
Click to expand...

Hi brub - welcome.

This is not damascus, but a "hamon" or hardening line that marks the transition from harder steel at the edge and tip, to softer steel at the spine. In this instance, Matt coated the spine-side of the blade in clay prior to quenching it in oil. When quenched, the uncoated edge and tip cool faster (and hence harden more) than the clay-coated spine side. The results aren't always this spectacular, but some guys really make a study of getting a dramatic effect.

Roger
 
brub- RogerP said it far better than I could have! Basically what i did differently was apply the clay a bit thinner on vertical lines, dropped the temp. and soak time a bit (from 7-10 min to about 3-5 min.), and made sure my heat treat oil (texaco) was at otimum temp. for fastest quinch.

I found even at desired temp. (1450+/-) in this case, dont let it soak quite as long as normal and the line will follow the clay a bit more. The catch is when you do this be sure that your clay on the vertical lines is not as thick as normal ( in my case normal was probably 1/8" thick lines, the lines on the above blade were made with lines about 3/32" or less).

any how, its hard to blanket cover a "how to" as there are so many different variables in each persons shop, each affecting the end result. Ive also found what works for me every time, dont work for some one else that is basically doing the same thing.... funny thing this bladesmithing stuff is.
 
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