San-Mai steel. What steel combinations are best

[ancientsteels]

I am an aspiring blade smith, particularly swords, and I especially like the idea of san-mai. However I was wondering If any of you other guys have any input.

What if I was to use a 1095 core, with a 1075 shell/spine.

Also, this is for a project that I am contemplating on, specifically for the purpose of making a signature sword.

I want it strong, fast, hard, and reasonably light weight (approx 2 lbs), about 33 inches long.

Any ideas for steel combination?

 

[mete]

One of the best , for many reasons is quite popular , 1084/15N20 !

 

[ancientsteels]

And which would be used as edge and which as shell/spine?
Thanks for the input and feedback!

 

[mete]

1084 is the edge. One benefit which some don't know is that the HT of the two overlap a good bit so HT is easy , making both steels happy. S I think the 1084/15N20 is the best combo !

 

[ancientsteels]

Cool! Thanks for the feedback!

 

[ancientsteels]

And I am not familiar with some of the terms (forgive my ignorance). What is HT

 

[BladeMan]

HT = heat treatment aka hardening the steel

 

[ancientsteels]

Thanks! I really appreciate the feedback! I hope to learn a lot. Thanks again!