O1 -steel

D

David Metzger

Joined
Oct 8, 2010
Messages
109
Just thought I would make a quick note. Just recieved O1 from Amtek Tool, a couple pieces back ordered, but came straight and part was labeled from Starrett(well respected steel). Very pleased with them, got in 7 days from order.

Just ordered some O1 from Victor Machinery. Some incredible sales prices and quick responses on email - seems like a good company.

David
 
Hey Dave. This is going back a bit, but I used to forge a Bunch of O1 and other toolsteels, (1095, 1086, W1 ect.) But "Amtek rang a bell. I know I got alot of steel from Starrett (you're right about that being very good steel) I never had any forging probs with any thing from them. Or stock removal either. Ya just brough back some ole mems. O1 is not used very much by anyone these days (rust probs) but thats why a good blade Owner should always take care of their blades. Just like one would a classic car. Baby it and it will take care of ya. O1 makes a great blade. Happy to know you're keepin the toolsteels out there. Enjoy edgy :thumbup:
Oh and Welcome here. Very cool members, and owners.
 
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Thanks for the welcome Edgy. I am looking forward to my new hobby. I actually got interested in making knives after buying a couple higher quality knives and seeing how much better they performed than the cheap stuff. Better steels, better design and better heat treatment.

I figured I could do a little better than what I bought and have some spare time so almost ordered the Coote grinder, then ended going with the KMG. I have always liked making and designing things.

I have to laugh at this crazy business. You invest a lot in equipment, materials and space to make knives - not that you have to, but to be somewhat efficient. Then you might sell some for $100 to $250 or possibly more and a simple knife may have $25 to $50+ in materials. Not only do you have to be a skilled craftsman, but also an artist and a constant student on knives, steels, heat treatments etc. Put on top marketing, running a small business and competing with some very good quality machine made knives. I'm still laughing but loving it.

David

I did't know where to start a new thread so I just added to this one. Move or delete if moderator likes.
 
Welcome.

Just a quick question since you indicate you are new to this madness, how are you planning to do your heat treat?
the reason I ask is that O-1 is not a good steel for beginners, it really wants to be heat treated in controlled conditions (temperature controlled kiln strongly reccommended, I used O-1 for most of my blades for 15 years)

-Page
 
I will either buy a kiln or find someone to Heat Treat. I have read the forums and know it needs accurate temp at 1450-1500 for about 15 minutes, oil quench ( sounds like a variety of oils work (preheated around 130F) Then temper 3 times at around 400 depending what final hardness I want for 2 hours each time. I think liquid nitrogen helps marginally. Maybe I could build a gas powered salt bath for the 1475F hardening stage.

If I am doing just stock removal do I need to bring up to 1600F then back once or twice--I don't think so as long as I keep the steel cool when working? How does the above sound?

I decided on O1 since I could get it at pricing for making mistakes but could have a great steel for the knives that work out. I know it rusts, but has advantages of toughness, grain size so sharp blades and you don't need diamonds to sharpen. We get about 10" of precipitation a year in Palisade Colorado.

A Peach Orchard is my main occupation.


David
 
If you are doing stock removal I believe you are not going to need the normalizing, and I don't think you are going to retain enough Austentite to make the liquid nitrogen worthwhile. Sounds like you have been doing your homework. Looking forward to seeing your blades.

-Page
 
Thanks Page, I looked at your web site. Amazing knives. I see you are also an expert on steels and heat treatment Thanks again
David
 
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