Titanium Blades

Whit

Whit

Joined
Dec 27, 2001
Messages
729
My question is about the suitability of 6AL- 4V for use as a knife blade. I know a local maker here who uses it regularly. He claims to have no problem with edge holding. From what I've read previously, I wouldn't think they'd be any good. Does anyone know what RC hardness they would be? Can you do anything to increase it? He gave me a blank and I'm working on a combat knife. It's good practice if nothing else. Can I use my regular stamp to put my mark on it, or will I screw up the stamp? Any input is greatly appreciated. Thanks all.
 
I didn't hear of this product but I also wanted to know and searched through web, I didn't find any info mentioning above 40 HRC. I think it's maximum hardness is between 40 & 45.

http://www.cartech.com/news/wr_news_aerospace_golf.html

As far as I know these kind of alloys are produced for their tensile strenght (toughness) capabilities. Titanium and its alloys are so famous in fantasy world but in reality I dont think they'll make any good blade so far (its good for fittings and armour , and thats all). Million kinds of steels are able to perform the most cuttlery purposes and this titanium madness is not sane IMHO.

B. W.
Emre KIPMEN
 
There are commercially made titanium blades that are near 50HRc. Their best use is perhaps as a dive knife because of titaniums great corrosion resistance.They are also nonmagnetic.
 
Thanks Mete, I hoped you comment. I read in the link in the previous response about "aging" titanium at 900 deg F. Would this be a good idea? Any idea what it's hardness might be before that? I am worried about ruining my stamp if I try to mark it on the ricasso. So I guess this is just a good gimicky knife, not much more than that. Thanks.
 
Mission uses Beta C titanium. 6Al4V won't get much about Rc36, even with aging.
Beta C is hard to get ahold of and fairly expensive when you do. The heat cycle is critical on it. It's a pita to work.
I'd say, take my advice and stick with steel, but I can remember guys telling me that long ago. I wasn't satisfied till I tried it. :)
 
Hmmm, I think I can relate to that! Why hang out here and actually take the advice right??? That would be no fun! Thanks Kit.
 
I'll second what Kit said.

I made a blade out of a forged Beta C blank (by FES) and it's a major PITA.

I will add though, that Warren Thomas makes almost all of his blades from Ti and he welds carbides to the edge. I must admit I don't know the exact details involved. But he makes many of his blades from 6AL-4V and has recently made some from TiMascus.

-Nick-

http://www.wheelerknives.com
 
I hope Nick Wheeler adds his comments.

Nick is finishing a Beta C knife that was forged from rod by Ed Schempp. He heat treated the knife a few days ago.

6AL4V titanium will get scary sharp. Every time I unload a shipment of titanium I get lots of cuts. However, 6AL4V will not hold an edge for a long time. The edge holding of Beta C is way beyond 6AL4V. Comparing 6AL4V to Beta C in terms of edge holding is like comparing 303 stainless to 440C.

If you are set on making a knife from titanium give me a call and I'll sell you some Beta C. You have been warned! ;)
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top