Hatchet

[dirtyphil]

what would be the best beginner steel (high carbon or tool steel) besides 1084 for a small camp hatchet and what would be the best thickness. Im not gonna be chopping down trees but maybe splitting kindling, etc...I was thinking 3/16" in either A-2 or 52100 just cuz I've worked with them a couple times but don't know how they'd hold up. Thanks, Phil

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I would suggest 1075. Aldo has it in stock in .375" thick. A 4" wide 48" long bar costs $100 and would make six camp hatchets. That is $16 each for the steel. Neoprene or canvas Micarta handle scales work great. Paracord wrapping also makes neat hatchets.

The 1075 can be HTed with a torch and an edge quench, or the whole thing in a forge or oven. It will also take a nice hamon.

 

[Von Gruff]

Stacy, is there that much difference between 1084 and 1075 other than the .011% carbon in its HT and edge holding if they are both threated the same?

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

1075 make a great hard use tool .... like an ax/hatchet. HT is the same as 1084 - 1500F. It does very well with an edge quench.