Stainless spring material

[John L]

Previously, I have been making liner lock folders. I want to make some lock backs, etc. where I need a good spring. Are all stainless blade steels usable for springs or are some better than others? Thanks.

 

[Arthur Washburn]

The normal stainless such as ATS 34, 154 cm etc can be used for spring material. You just have to play with the temper and find the combination that results in the hardness you are looking for in the spring. I've had to temper as high as 1000f to get the proper Rc with some stainless steels.

 

[kkc]

If you just want a spring insert texas knifemaker supply has work hardened 302 ss that works well. It can also be more forgiving to use a insert for your first few lockbacks rather than a one peace backspacer and spring.

http://www.texasknife.com/store/s-pages/TKS_MainframeStore.htm

Kirby

 

[JCaswell]

17-4 or 17-7 are both spring stainless steels used a great deal in aerospace/medical/etc.
They machine really well and are precipitation hardening--A simple heat and soak at ~900F and ambient cooling to RT and you get full hardness (about 45 Rc). As a result, distortion is practically non existent so it's well suited for small parts. Also, tremendous wear characteristics.