Reducing stock thickness

O

oldwolf

Joined
Dec 29, 2002
Messages
617
I doubt there's an easy solution, but I'll ask. I have a piece of new truck spring (5160 ) that's 3/8" thick. Need it to be 1/4". Called my local machinist and he said no way with the equipment he has. Said it would take hours taking a few thousants at a time. Heck it's going to take me a few hours of shoving it into a belt to take 1/8" off of it. I don't have anything like a surface grinder and doubt I could find someone locally who does. Any other options? Also what would someone charge to grind it?
 
Just a thought, but you'd probably be so much further ahead in both time and money to buy a 4' stick of 1/4" 5160 from one of the suppliers. Then you have a known steel type in the thickness you want it.

I think Kelly Cupples has 4' sticks of 1/4" 5160 for around $16 and depending on where you live, could have it in 1-3 days.
 
Forget it and go find some 1/4". 5160 is not that expensive to buy in flat bar. Are you even sure you have 5160? All truck springs are not 5160. Leaf springs vary in steel types.
 
Yes, save that for making an ax or a smachette. Get a piece of steel in the size needed.
 
OK you guys. How did I know what you'ld say?:D I need this knife done right away which is why I'm trying to use what I have. I have lots of 3/16", but no 1/4" and the client wants 1/4". Shipping time might put me too late.
Thanks for the quick response.
 
Might try the forging trick down the line as I wouldn't want to try that while under the gun. My forging skills need work. Good idea tho.
 
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