Heat treat question

[rasret01]

I picked up a 1/4" billet of canister-welded steel. I don't know what the powdered filler steel was, but I'm assuming the 3/8" bearings were 52100. Should I heat treat as if it was all 52100? Would a clayed differential heat treat be appropriate? The knife is a large bowie, so I guess I'm looking for a chopper temper range as well.

I'd appreciate any guidance, and thanks.

Dick

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

HT for the 52100. I would do a full quench and then draw the temper on the spine with a torch. A clay quench would not be wise with either 52100 or a canister welded billet.
Shoot for a temper in the Rc-58-59 range for a camp chopper. I don't have my charts handy, but off the top of my head, a 425-450°F temper should do it.

 

[rasret01]

Thank you, sir.