Newbie 1084 HT final edge and tempering question.

[Dman3d]

Hey everyone.
First I would like to thanks all the blade makers out there for sharing so much information! I am more or less hooked I think.

I've spent some time reading tons of posts and watching vids for quite some time and have gotten started.I am moving along with stock removal on two knives and am getting ready for a backyard heat treat. Using Gough Customs file jig design.

My question (at this time) is when do I file the final edge? I have the first knife edge down to just thicker than a dime. As I understand it the edge can wave/warp like bacon if it's too thin during HT or quench I guess. If that is true when do it file the rest down? After HT or after tempering in the oven? Most of what I have read or watched does not seem to be specific about this step. They seem to say "finish the blade".

 

[Cody Hofsommer]

I go .040 before HT. then harden, temper as soon as possible, like have the oven already warm. Then bring down to desired thickness (~.020-.010) then hand sand, handle, make sheath, then sharpen. You don't want to anything to it until it has been tempered. Better to not even put it down, though I do sometimes.

 

[Dman3d]

Thanks Cody. :thumbup: