Throwing knives: steel type and hardness?

[tmickley]

I'd like to make some throwers. What would be suggested for steel and hardness?
Could I just use some AST34 or 01 I have and not have them hardened at all?

 

[Matt Shade]

Welcome to the forums
Throwing knives doesn't seem to be a huge topic in this forum although I'm sure these guys can help you out.your best bet on materials is to check out the throwing knife forum ( under general,4 down from shop talk) and see what those guys like best. I think there are some custom throwing knife and spike makers that post there fairly often.
Also check out this post bobH's throwing spikes

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I may not be the sharpest knife in the drawer... but I've got the sharpest knife in the room.

 

[Crayola]

Talk to Bobby Branton. he moderates the thrower forum, as well as being the dude who is in charge of making all of those ATC hawks. I won a thrower in a contest he held. he could tell you TONS of info about throwers. He is the prez of the largest throwing club thingy in the US as well, so he really knows his stuff.

My thrower is 5160, but I don't know how hard it is.

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"Come What May..."

 

[Bruce Bump]

I used to make alot of throwers from chain saw bar steel. They were water cut and therefore were all the same. I couldnt find a market but had lots of fun throwing them until my arm hurt too much. They didnt need to be heat-treated.

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ABS Journeyman Smith, Bruce D Bump