Materials in Kansas City?

[Dwarvencraft]

Hello, all. I'm a first timer, so thanks for glancing my way! I was wondering if there were any local sources of knife steel in the KC area. So far my attempts at sleuthing out good deals have come up with nothing much. I'm primarily looking for a high-carbon steel source that doesn't tack on $20 s&h. I haven't actually made any knives at home yet, although I was privileged to make a couple with Bill Miller out of Warsaw, MO. So I'm looking to start small and build basic skills with some relatively cheap steel.

Thanks!

 

[NJBillK]

Often times the sizes of the bars are why the cost is so high.
I live in NJ and when I order from the NJ steel baron, his shipping, while fast, is pricey due to being 36"-48" sections and are oversized packages.

The flip side is that if you order smaller pieces from usaknifemaker or other vendors, you pay more per piece.

I would give a call to Aldo at NJ steel baron and ask him if he would be able to fill a small ($7.15) or medium ($13.xx) flat rate box with 1084 or 1075.
He is a good guy and often will answerthe phone or will field calls that contain more personalized issues.

Please keep in mind there may be a "cut fee" which brings your medium up to near $20, and a small box to near $10.

 

[Russ Andrews]

What steels & sizes are you looking for..?

 

[Dwarvencraft]

I'm probably looking for 1070/1085 ish steel and the length isn't terribly important, since I'm not plannin on making something huge. I was thinking 3/16" x 1 1/4" x 3-5 ft. Thanks to the tip on calling Aldo. Sometimes I forget that people can provide good customer service...