Grain structure question and first forging attempt

[quint]

Had a couple of knives I was working on and the grinding didnt come out right after HT and temper so I decided to break the two and see how it looked on the inside. Both were edge quenched then had 2 2 hour tempers at 400f. I dont think the bigger one had enough time in the forge, I think the smaller one was a little bit better but not sure. The bigger one bent several times before breaking while the little one snapped on the way back up from a 90 degree bend. Both are 1084.

On a side note finally got around to using my anvil and took two more knives that werent coming along that great and beat them into a new shape. I am gonna try to finish them up if I can grind them successfully. I was actually just happy to get a knife shaped object out of it since it was my first forging of anything.

Thanks for feedback and looking.

 

[mete]

The grain structure looks fine on both. The larger one might look confusing to you but that's because it was bent back and forth !

 

[quint]

Thanks Mete for the input. I will continue to work on my HT and tempering and make sure I am consistent with my results atleast as much as I can be.

I have another request from ya guys. The smaller knife the grind isnt coming out well at all but the larger one I have a nice convex grind going. I would like to finish is just so I have actually finished my first knife (been making alot of recyclable steel since I started) even with all the large hammer marks and what not. I wanted your all input on cutting the end of the handle off or should I just keep it. I think it kind of makes the handle a little long but its not hurting the ability to use the knife. Just would like to improve on the design a little if possible.

Thanks. Here is a pic with the idea drawn on.

 

[mete]

That's a long handle even for someone with a large hand .A 4 to 4.5" handle would be more practical.

 

[SBuzek]

That's a long handle even for someone with a large hand .A 4 to 4.5" handle would be more practical.

I'm with mete,lop about and inch off of it.
Stan

 

[quint]

Getting the blade more to a suitable profile I think. The handle change really makes a difference. Hopefully get around to adding some scales this weekend.