To forge or not to forge, that is the question! +

[Balis Edge]

I'm using 304 stainless slab handles for my balisong. Do I need to heat treat them at all?

Also, when milling a space for inserts another member of the forum suggested that I cut like this:

/_____________\ dovetail

I had the impression that this was a birdseye view looking down at the top of the slab. The angle makes a better fit, does anyone else recommend this style? I would like the inlet to be rounded, more like this:
______________
)______________(
Can anyone give some milling tips for a best fit?

 

[Elwin]

No heat treatment of the 304 should be neccessary. The milling question you have I'm afraid I cant answer. I am contemplating the making of a bali, but my design would be different from the style you propose. This is mainly due to my inability to access a milling machine.