Mete, can I Safley Temper A2 500 F and Above (Blue Brittle?)

[rlinger]

I wonder because of the chromium content and a little vanadium. I am guessing I can but will not without your advise.

Thanks Mete.

Roger

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Roger,Mete will chime in here,but you can temper A2 well above 500.The projected RCH at 500 is HRC60,at 600-HRC59,and 700 is HRC58.It peaks at 500 on the toughness/hardness chart.Crucible has the chart on the A2 page,along with all the other tech info.
SA

 

[rlinger]

Stacy, that is the essence of my question; the best combination and why I ask. This is my first A2 and while the grind is of mine the finished knife will not be of mine. Thanks and I take your kind advise but still await the school master's advise.

RL

 

[mete]

Yes but you don't get the advantage [in toughness] by going too high. The curve [see Crucible] is different from O-1.I'd go maybe to 600F. BTW Chris Reeve one piece knives , of A-2 are hardened to 55-57 Rc.