newbie questions please help

M

mpwildy

Joined
Dec 7, 2005
Messages
8
I got some metal at Lowe's for my first few attempts at knife making, so I am not sure what it is, I am sure it isn't anything special though. ( I have some 1095 ordered) I cut out a couple of blank blades and even filed one down and have somewhat of an edge on it. I plan on heating them until a magnet does not stick to it and quenching it. should I file the edge first or wait until after I heat them? what should I use to quench it? brine water oil??
All comments welcome, I am new to this and willing to learn
 
Corbon content in Lowe's steel will not be sufficient to create any real hardness. This is mild steel and should be used for grinding practice only. Heat treating should be practiced on steel that will actually give results so you know what your quench/anneal/temper cycles are doing.
My 2 cents.
-Mark
 
It's still a good way to see if you like making knifes. My first 3-4 knifes were mildsteel... It can still look good, but usability is very bad.
 
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