W2

Walt2

Walt2

Joined
Mar 13, 2001
Messages
1,157
Does anyone know where to find a comparagraph on steels that lists W2?
 
I don't know about a comparagraph but here is some info on W2.
HTG_p267_W2.jpg


HTG-p268-W2.jpg


- Paul Meske
 
Thanks Paul, what I am looking for is one of the graphs that compares different steels wear resistance and toughness. I cannot locate one that compares W2 to other steels like D2, Cpm154 or others.
 
You might use the graphs showing 1095. It is very similar in wearability to W2. The vanadium makes it a tad tougher.
 
bladsmth said:
You might use the graphs showing 1095. It is very similar in wearability to W2. The vanadium makes it a tad tougher.
Click to expand...
Stacy, in my testing, W2 smokes 1095, in toughness and wear resistance. W2 is also cleaner and higher quality, because it's a tool steel.
 
I use both, alot, there are aspects I like about each, If I had to choose one it would be W2, primarily becuase it moves easier under the hammer. Ive noticed no big difference in practical performance, but the 1095 I use has a bit more vanadium in it that standard 1095.
 
Good point, Matt. It really depends on the steels. Different grades/qualities of both. I was testing my W2 against Admirals 1095.
 
Yes, I agree that there is a lot of variation on 10XX steel makeup. What I was suggesting was the use of any comparagraphs that showed 1095 might be useful for extrapolating W2's comparison.

I find W2 superior to 1095, but wouldn't say it smokes it. That said, given the choice in purchasing steel, I would always take W2.

Probably the most important feature in 1095/W2 performance is getting the HT right. The extra V in W2 makes it a bit easier to nail the HT than plain 1095. Done right, they are both excellent steels, miss the HT and any steel will not perform up to snuff. I cringe at all the posts suggesting the use of a one brick forge or a welding torch and doing 1095 in canola oil. "Heat to just above non-magnetic and quench", is a bit understated for 1095.
 
I will also add, once i use up my existing 1095, I will be using W2 exclusively. I have a BUNCH of it, and it just acts so nice when forging.
 
Heat treatment is definitely most important here. I didn't mean to put 1095 down, it is a very good blade steel. I just like W2 a lot better.
 
bladsmth said:
Probably the most important feature in 1095/W2 performance is getting the HT right. The extra V in W2 makes it a bit easier to nail the HT than plain 1095.
Click to expand...

I always thought that W2 needed to be quenched faster. Was I wrong?
 
RMLamey said:
I use both, alot, there are aspects I like about each, If I had to choose one it would be W2, primarily becuase it moves easier under the hammer. Ive noticed no big difference in practical performance, but the 1095 I use has a bit more vanadium in it that standard 1095.
Click to expand...

1095 contains Vanadium???
 
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