What is special about L6?

[cbach8tw]

Since I asked about the other steels, I wanted to see what opinions there are about L6, any thoughts? L6 is a medium carbon steel, are there any other elements that make it a good choice?

 

[NJBillK]

Hey bud, the thread linked below will have some info for you. I haven't used it much, aside from an alloy that is close in construction (iirc) and that is a svord mini peasant.

It burrs stubbornly when cut with diamond when left seemingly soft, but it responds Very nicely to ceramic and doesn't burr badly when cut with the finer abrasive. I don't know what the max hardness is, so I can't comment on how well a higher hardness would work, in regards to burr stubbornness.

Link mentioned above:
http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/608793-Advice-needed-on-l6-steel

 

[flatface77]

It's known to be a very tough steel. Not great for edge holding & it pits if not properly cared for but is a go-to steel if you need a very tough blade.

 

[cbach8tw]

Thanks for the interesting info, I appreciate the link.

 

[BluntCut MetalWorks]

I scanned the linked old thread ... didn't see mentioned of L6 has lower transition temperature, which is similar to 15N20. i.e. retain good toughness in below freezing temperature.

 

[shqxk]

L6 is known for it ultra tough at early 50's RC bainite structure. This type of steel need less time in soaking behind MS to get bainite structure compare to other steel.

 

[cbach8tw]

Thanks. I have a few of David Farmer's knives in L6, they are sharp, good grind and they seem to old the edge well.

 

[cbach8tw]

Thanks everyone, much appreciated.