I have cut the blank so far out of 3/16" 1095 bar stock. It measures 5 3/4" tip to tip, with a blade length of 2 inches and and width of 1". I want to grind the blade down to 6/8-7/8, but I have heard that the traditional ratio of width to spine thickness is 3.5:1. I am wondering whether this ratio holds for kamisori type razors?
If it does, I will want to plate it with something semi-precious like silver, but I will need to apply a plating that is thicker than a typical electroplate, as it will be both functional and decorative. (3.5:1, with a small tolerance, is the ratio that allows optimal bevel maintenance, as I understand it)
I also have stock of m390, but it is .144". I would pose the question to my very knowledgeable audience here whether this type of steel, which has superior edge retension and toughness, and also optimally ht'd comes out at the rather impressive 62rc, would allow for a slightly larger tolerance, like a ratio of 4:1 or even 4.5:1?
3.5:1 gives a bevel angle of about 11' approaching what Ive heard is the optimal 25 inclusive. On a kamisori, the geometry is quite diffent. It's going to be 1/4 hollow on the bottom and fully hollow over 2/3 the blade on top, if Im successful. Likely it will be more like 1/2 hollow, but the bevel angles will come out the same. I repeat this project with a traditional western style straight, will the lower bevel angle on the m390 be a substantial problem?
This was a pretty ambitious project for me to choose as my first blade, but the more I challenge myself, the faster I will improve. Plus, its small size suits itself to my equipment, which include a dremel, files, and a worksharp 1/2" belt grinder that I am tasking with far more than it is indended for.
I'm very curious to hear people's opinions and experiences. If I cant find any definitive answers, I will likely just do it all my way and see how it comes out. I like experimenting, and the steel isnt that expensive.
Btw, ht plans are Peters HT
