suggestion on steel?

[dcycleman]

I'm going to order some bar stock to make a fixed blade. I know some steels are air hardening and are very difficult to work with. I will be grinding and shaping the stock, not forging. I'm thinking 1095 or a tool steel. Any suggestions are very appreciated.

 

[jll346]

If you plan on trying to heat treat yourself then 1095 is not a good choice as it in not easy to do. If you are doing it yourself get some 1075/1080 or 1084 to start.

 

[LRB]

What jll346 said. Too many beginners want to go right into 1095 not having the right equipment, or knowledge to HT it properly, and it does require much more than just non-magnetic, and quenching in mineral or peanut oil. 1080/84 is one of the easiest, almost fool proof steels for the beginner to HT without high tech equipment, and is almost as good as 1095 for edge holding.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

1080/1084/1086
Stacy

 

[dcycleman]

thanks!

 

[Danbo]

1084 would be my choice. :thumbup:

 

[Leatherface]

1084 bro