Grinding 1084 vs. 5160

Joined
Sep 14, 1999
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92
I have been grinding 5160 for bowies (and other blade types) for quite some time and love the stuff. I am going to try some 1084, mainly for some more dramatic temper lines. Any comments on differences in heat treat, performance, etc...???
 
I shape all my blades with files as no grinder yet. I find 1084 easier to shape and finish with sandpaper than 5160 or 52100. 1084 is also noticably easier to forge than 52100 or 5160. 1084 does not seem to get as bright as 5160 or 52100 in the final finish. Not a lot of difference, just barely visible. Differences in tempering, for me, are that 1084 is tempered to 400 degrees F. for a Rockwell C hardness of 58, whereas 5160 is tempered at 375 for the same hardness. These hardness values are verified on every blade as I have a Wilson hardness tester. The hardness tester insures my process was done correctly.

Charles Kasicki
ckknives
 
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