Types of metals? Looking for info.

Blaster-6

Blaster-6

Knife Engraver / Craftsman / Service Provider
Joined
Nov 2, 2015
Messages
107
New to the forum, but trying to gather information on the types of metals knives are made from. I'm not a huge "knife head", I have my small, useful collection, but I'm an engraver by trade. I've engraved a lot of knives over the years but desire to learn more about the metals used. Most engravings turn out well, but recently I had a challenging situation, it turned out well but wasn't up to my standards. I've been searching and trying to find out more ever since. Any hints, tips, thoughts on the various metals used in blades from the most common to exotic would be appreciated. Best way to identify metals as well? I engrave by sandblaster or high powered fiber laser depending on the task, design, and customer desire. Thanks!
 
Well, the only type of metal used in 95% of knives is steel. Every time you say a knife is made of metal an orphaned kitten dies.

As far as which steels are used in knives, the possibilities are as diverse as the number of knives for sale. There are some common ones though.

1095
154cm
S30V
M390

There are literally too many to list. As far as how to identify them, it's either written on the blade or on the manufacturer's or makers website.

I'm not an engraver but I'd say the level of difficulty in engraving the knife steel is in direct relation to the RC hardness. Also the abrasion resistance of the steel is a huge factor and would have to be looked up depending on the steel in question. The questions you are asking are far too broad to be adequately answered.
 
Thanks for the info. Understand it's a broad question. You're correct regarding the RC hardness, something I like to have a gauge on especially when I sandblast. I try and ID most manufacturers and get an understanding of the base material before I engrave. I used my laser on a "cheaper" knife (per the customer) and either found a defect in the metal or just a poor blade. Ended up getting a rough surface as I engraved deeper into it. It looked OK but not something I had expected or ever run into before (I've been engraving for about 15 years, only have had the laser for a short while though). Nothing had changed with my laser settings and I ran the same pattern on a piece of stainless immediately after and the engraving was smooth and perfect. Just curious. Trying to learn a bit about the metallurgy aspect and quality of blades...
Thanks.



Silvanus said:
Well, the only type of metal used in 95% of knives is steel. Every time you say a knife is made of metal an orphaned kitten dies.

As far as which steels are used in knives, the possibilities are as diverse as the number of knives for sale. There are some common ones though.

1095
154cm
S30V
M390

There are literally too many to list. As far as how to identify them, it's either written on the blade or on the manufacturer's or makers website.

I'm not an engraver but I'd say the level of difficulty in engraving the knife steel is in direct relation to the RC hardness. Also the abrasion resistance of the steel is a huge factor and would have to be looked up depending on the steel in question. The questions you are asking are far too broad to be adequately answered.
Click to expand...
 
I think this guy is selling services under the guise of learning about metal.
 
bodog, it would be impossiblevto ssk without saying what he does. Not cool to smack down a new guy so openly.

But there is a way to report suspicions, as you did. Leave it at thst, please.
 
Esav Benyamin said:
bodog, it would be impossiblevto ssk without saying what he does. Not cool to smack down a new guy so openly.

But there is a way to report suspicions, as you did. Leave it at thst, please.
Click to expand...

Well said, give the guy a chance, although when the whole world is out to get you paranoia is just good thinking..... Russ
 
Thanks for the links. Great information! I'm not selling any services at this time. I've lurked around the forums and found this to be a great resource, I ran into an issue doing what I do and finally joined the forum to ask a question. The information is much appreciated.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top