Supplier for unusual/oversize billets 5160, S7. Mods please move if incorrect forum.

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Dave Behrens

Dave Behrens

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I am searching everywhere for billets .4-.5" thick x 8" x 18" of 5160, or S7(pref 5160). Aldo is already on this for me, I have also tried onlinemetals and a few other suppliers and they don't carry ANY steel in that size. I need at least 3 billets but no more than 5. The biggest problem so far has been the width, and the small quantity of the order. Do any of you fellow knifemakers(or anyone) know were I might be able to find what I need should Aldo not be able to find/get it for me(not likely:D since it's Aldo). Any help is apprecitated. Thank you.

Mods, please move thread if not placed in proper forum.
 
Have you tried a google search for a gentleman named Fayne(sp). The last I heard, he was making HUGE billets. Not sure if he still is.
 
Fain Edwards was his name. They were contracted to Bear Knives for numerous years. I am not sure if they still are. His son, I cant recall his name, took over the ironworks. Mr Fain made large billets, As in 50lbs. Hope this helps. Sorry I am not able to recall any further info.
 
Way back when Betts Springs would sell us their drops for between scrap and new prices. Don't know if any spring shops use this thickness/width? How about throwing 6150 and 9255/60 into the mix to "broaden the net" if the other two alloys are unobtanium?

The reason I asked about your project is you might be able to partner with a smith with a power hammer to help you out. You could start with a considerably 'narrower' stock by drawing out the blade/bit, and sectioning/folding out the spike from the body. You could still finish much by stock removal yourself to save on sending extra money outside. Sam Salvati posted a nice non-edged piece using the later methodology. Sometimes we need to think like blacksmiths and then like cutlers/bladesmiths ;-). I don't currently have the means to help, but as past keeper of the black boogers, that's how I might procede.
 
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Also, did you try Pacific Machinery and Tool Steel Company in Oregon? Been told that their 5160 is quite clean. Also, the "A" word lists 8" wX.5"t 5160, and they will shear 6150 from plate. I know that their 5160 has gotten rave reviews of the wrong kind, but I would venture a guess that the 6150 is clean just because of what it is.
 
stevomiller said:
Way back when Betts Springs would sell us their drops for between scrap and new prices. Don't know if any spring shops use this thickness/width? How about throwing 6150 and 9255/60 into the mix to "broaden the net" if the other two alloys are unobtanium?

The reason I asked about your project is you might be able to partner with a smith with a power hammer to help you out. You could start with a considerably 'narrower' stock by drawing out the blade/bit, and sectioning/folding out the spike from the body. You could still finish much by stock removal yourself to save on sending extra money outside. Sam Salvati posted a nice non-edged piece using the later methodology. Sometimes we need to think like blacksmiths and then like cutlers/bladesmiths ;-). I don't currently have the means to help, but as past keeper of the black boogers, that's how I might procede.
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Thanks for the idea, i will look into that if the "Great Billet Search" turns up nothing. The problem I'm having getting the size "rolled" is it is a very small order by industry standards and I cannot afford to buy a larger amount.

Metzger - Thank you, O1 is a great steel but is not the right steel for this project.
 
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