Is there a way to tell 1084 from 80CRV2?

[skillgannon]

I'm finishing up a bunch of old blades that I had roughed out a few months ago. I can't remember the steels I used. Any ideas? I know they are pretty close.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

If you have a known sample of them, it should be easy with a spark test and a dip in FC.

 

[Ken H>]

What will be the difference in FC dip between 1084 and 80CRV2. Would the sparks not be close to the same? You're talking about post HT grinding for spark comparison?

 

[jdm61]

Quench in Parks #50. If it explodes,then it is 80CrV2.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

With a known sample, I think the differences will be detectable. The higher alloy content should make a difference in the etch and the alloying should also make a different spark. It won't be enough difference to identify them individually, but with the known samples done side by side you should see a difference.

 

[P.Brewster]

I would say the thickness is your ticket. 80CrV2 is never sold in an exact fractional thickness. 1084 may or may not be, but the chances that they are the exact same thickness is very unlikely. Go back to your purchase receipts, check with the vendor, and you should be able to figure it out.