How does 1095 compare to 5160 in heat treating.

M

Marlin01

Joined
Sep 20, 2011
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50
Hello,
Since I started making knives in 97 I have always used 5160. Just heat to non magnetic and quench the edge in oil draw back the temper. Thats the way I have always done it. Anyway I was thinking about getting some 1095, my question is can I do this the same way or would I be in trouble?
Thanks, Marlin
 
yeah... +1 on Bruce's link.

You might be happy with 5160, using your method but it actually gets better results with a higher heat. 1500-1550F... if you are heat to non-magnetic you are probably just hitting 1475-1500F. For 5160 that could mean a few more HRC points.

If you are happy with 5160 and an open forge, you will absolutely love Aldo's 1084FG with the same routine. 1084 is the perfect steel for your current process. 1095 is a bit more picky and you probably won't reach its full potential in a forge.

Rick
 
Rick,
Thanks for that tip, I am using a wisper lowboy forge. I have a coal forge I made from a large plow disk, but prefer propane.
 
+1 for Aldo's 1084FG. Great steel; much easier to HT properly than 1095.
 
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