Hamon ?

[Keith Willis]

I'm not sure of the specs on SKS5 saw steel,but was wondering if someone could tell me if it would be a good steel to try a hamon on.I always do an edge quench,and although I have never tried to etch it,I can always see the temper line.Can someone help?

Thanks,God bless,Keith

 

[J.KNIGHT]

HI Keith

Hamon will work best on steels like 1095, 1075, 1050, W1, W2. I have used these and produced some incredible activity in the blade. There are others.
Steel's used in saw blades are more difficult, because they may contain cromium, nickle, and other elements that allow them to harden more deeply or add toughness.
With your method of hardening,[edge quench] you should be successful in getting some activity if you clay up the really thick.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

SKS5 is the asian designation for L-6. It is not a good hamon steel.
Stacy

 

[Keith Willis]

Thanks J and Stacy.

How about 74NiCr2,It is also a saw steel.It may be within the same specs as the SKS5.
I have some of both,is why I ask.

Thanks again,God bless,Keith

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

The letters that tell you "NO" are Ni and Cr

Stacy