M390 question

R

Rsq

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Aug 7, 2011
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I have a piece of m390 that is 14"x2"x.14". I am wondering what would be the maximum reasonable length of a fixed blade made from m390? I know that generally 12" is the maximum recommended length for a stainless knife, but if 4" of this were tang, and then it had a 10" blade, would that pose any structural problems down the line?

Thanks
 
I've never heard that 12" was the max length for a stainless knife. I would say though, that the thickness
of .14" would be a bit thin for some blades.
 
I know the 12" guideline isn't for all stainless, but the chromium content makes the blade brittle after a certain length, which lends itself to stresspoints. I just cant seem to remember if 12 was for blades or blades plus tang. I any case, would a 10x2x0.14" blade be unsuitable for hard use? I.e a bowie?
 
IMO,that piece of steel would not be suitable for knife such as you
indicated because it's too thin, not because it's stainless.

I'd suggest picking a thicker piece of steel...around 1/4" or even a
bit thicker.
 
I recently made me a knife from M390 with a 7.25" blade. It was a hair over 12" OAL and thickness is .150". I have chopped and beat on the knife (hardened to 61Rc) with no issues. That thinner stock will make a great slicer.
It is a good size for a chef knife though.
 
Thanks
That's what I thout, I was just hoping I'd be able to make something a bit bigger. I'll just cut it in half on a diagonal and make two smaller knives.
 
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