Kevin, or Mete', sword of 01

[LRB]

I have a customer wanting an 18th c. hunting sword. 17" blade, by 1 1/2", 1/4" thick. Would 01 be a suitable steel, and if so, What would be a good temper range for strength. On a recent thread, Kevin mentioned a condition that lowers impact strength when 01 is tempered much beyond 450o, and up to 600o. If tempered around 600o / 650o, what could I expect as far as impact strength, and flexability? I believe there would be adequate hardness for the edge, considering it is a sword, am I right? Or should I just go with 5160? this will be stock removal.

 

[mete]

Flexibility is dependent on thickness not HT !...A sword would be better made with things like 1084, 5160, L-6 unless the customer has specific needs. A hardness about HRc 55 would be suitable.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

I'm with mete. O-1 is not the steel for a sword. 1050, 1084, 15N20 , 5160 will all be much better. As mete said a slightly lower and springier temper is best. Rc 54-55 is a good target. You are not going to slice tomatoes with a sword.
Stacy

 

[Danbo]

I'll bet Mr. Cashen will agree with my steel choice for a sword.

L6.

 

[Dan Gray]

I'd add 1095 to the list also.. L6 or 15N20 would be my two druthers for a sword and
then 1095 of course I mostly stock grind too..

My last one was D2