M390 use in a wakizashi

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gatsnknafs

Joined
Jun 10, 2024
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So I have a very rudimentary understanding of metals. I was thinking how a 16” Wakizashi would fair if it was made of m390. I understand that it won’t be optimal and there are much better steels for the job. But would the difference be that big in terms of performance.
 
What do you intend to use it for?

Not a bladesmith, but I do believe any maker on this forum would ask the same question.

Probably more intelligently...
 
gatsnknafs said:
So I have a very rudimentary understanding of metals. I was thinking how a 16” Wakizashi would fair if it was made of m390. I understand that it won’t be optimal and there are much better steels for the job. But would the difference be that big in terms of performance.
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I think you answered your own question.

M390 is not a particularly tough steel. It can hold a good edge for general cutting, and has good corrosion resistance. I wouldn't want it if I intended to do much hacking and whacking...especially in hard materials. YMMV.

(BTW, I edited your thread title to more accurately reflect your question.)
 
navman said:
I would not recommend it. If you absolutely, positively MUST use stainless, AEB-L is a better choice for larger blades. Otherwise, CPM 3V.
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gatsnknafs said:
So I have a very rudimentary understanding of metals. I was thinking how a 16” Wakizashi would fair if it was made of m390. I understand that it won’t be optimal and there are much better steels for the job. But would the difference be that big in terms of performance.
gatsnknafs said:
So I have a very rudimentary understanding of metals. I was thinking how a 16” Wakizashi would fair if it was made of m390. I understand that it won’t be optimal and there are much better steels for the job. But would the difference be that big in terms of performance.
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if you want a tough budget friendly steel for a small sword, 8670, or aeb-l for stainless!
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I’m surprised nobody mentioned Magnacut yet. Very tough, and stainless. I don’t see why it wouldn’t be an excellent choice, other than being expensive.
 
I would still say 3V or AEB-L over magnacut. Magnacut is relatively tough for a stainless steel, but I still would not make a machete out of it..or a Waki. AEB-L I absolutely would.
 
If stain resistance is something you want, then I would Only pic
AEB-L or its cousins (Nitro-V & 14C28N) they are all kinds the same.

Way more stain resistant than 3V, and way Tougher too at higher hardness.
less expensive as well. It's difficult picking a Better steel than AEB-L
No brainer
 
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