Questions on CPM-D2

T

THEMAKKER13

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Mar 4, 2011
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So I want to start trying my hand at forging. I'm currently borrowing a friend's forge and when I get the time, I'd like to start forging scrap truck springs or something. However, I'm always looking ahead, so I've been researching what steel I would use if I decide to continue making knives, and CPM D2 looks like a good option, so I have a couple questions. How much will the toughness be improved compared to regular D2? Can it be compared to O1, L6 or A2, especially if it is differentially heat treated? (I know there are varying opinions on this, but it seems like a good process from a logical standpoint, so please enlighten me). How easy is it for a beginner to forge, grind, and heat treat? (I don't plan on buying a kiln). Finally, will the edge be too brittle? I've read about that with regular D2 (although my D2 knife has never had problems like that). Thanks.
 
You need to do more reading and research.
D-2 isn't a good steel to forge. CPM-D2 is just a particle metallurgy form of D-2. It is a great grinding steel. It is a "Near Stainless" steel, with about 12% chromium. It can not be differentially hardened, as the temperatures and procedures are not the same as carbon steels.

Good forging choices are 1084, 1095, W-2, Cru-forge V, 5160, O-1, A-2. All but A-2 can be differentially hardened, but I recommend a full hardening and a differential temper. That will yield a better blade in most all cases.
 
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