Tempering Temps for 154CM

Tom Militano

Tom Militano

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I was looking at the heat treating specs that came with my Evenheat oven and it shows the temp for tempering 154CM as 400 degrees for 58 RC and 275 degrees for 61 RC. Bob Engnath's old site shows a 950 degree tempering temp for 59-60 RC. What's right? I tend to go with Bob Engnath. Thanks.
 
As Crucible says[ www.crucibleservice.com ] - tempering between 800-1100 F will cause a minor reduction in corrosion resistance and toughness ...Stick to the 400 F , much easier.
 
All of the Paul Bos heat treated 154CM blades we've owned (he uses the upper temper, i.e. 975F) have pitted badly. It's a good choice to go with the lower.
 
The only benefit of the 975 temper is that there is less chance of ruining the heat treated blade when you grind on the bevels after heat treat.

However, if you're careful not to heat the blade up (ie. keep the blade cool by dipping in water occasionally and using fresh sharp belts), the lower tempering (400) temperature will result in a better knife. :)
 
I am a service business, I do what my customers ask for, Some want the lower tempering, Most ask for the higher temper. Paul.
 
Paul Bos said:
I am a service business, I do what my customers ask for, Some want the lower tempering, Most ask for the higher temper. Paul.
Click to expand...
I was unaware that you offered both, though it should have been obvious. That's good to know.
 
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