What ss to use for liners?

S

Saberman

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Nov 14, 2000
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I'm looking to find out what kind of SS I should use for liners on lockback and slip joints. What are the differences of 303, 410, or 416? I don't even know what kind of questions I should ask myeslf about what I need. Help?

Brian
 
Pretty much nobody uses stainless for liners these days, Brian. The material of choice is titanium for its light weight and natural spring quality. As far as SS choices go, I usually use 303 for my hardware due to its easy-machinability and low cost. Lots of engravers like to get stuff made of 416 because they like the way it works. IMHO there isn't a discernable difference to the naked eye. between them. The only time I use 416 is when I am making an interframe.
 
Thanks Jeff, I know that Ti is the material for most folder makers use. But why don't slipjoint makers use it? Is it just to keep traditional? Or because Ti is sticky as a bearing surface.

To shead some light on what I'm trying to do. I just got a moust II from bladetech. And I want to make some nice wood scales for it. Looking at the knife it sould be a somewhat easy project if I can get the holes to line up. To make scales for the knife I think I need to make liners (doesn't have any, the handle is G-10). What do you think?
 
My bad, Bro. I didn't catch the slipjoint or lockback part of your post. I'd have to say that based on that new revelation (my "low-caffeine light" is flickering atm) I'd go with 303 still, if only for the cost savings. Heck... any 400-series would work just as well, the difference is in the hardenability.

As an alternative you could also use nickle sheet I think. I believe Texas Knifemakers Supply carries suitable thicknesses of this.
 
Thanks for the help Jeff! Was I right about my assumption of Ti? Good luck with the whole low caffeine thing. If you need alittle more try chocolate, or some blackjack gum Buzzzzzz!
 
Brian
Just about all I make is slipjoints and a few lockbacks. For several years all i use for liners is 410ss. I use 416ss for bolsters and spotweld them to the liner material. I get the 410 and 416 from K & G . The liner material is .040 thick.
I have never found 416 in sheet stock. From working with both I would say that they are verry similar steels. Virtually no difference in color and they finish equally well. Hope this helps.
Bill Ruple
 
Saberman said:
Thanks for the help Jeff! Was I right about my assumption of Ti? Good luck with the whole low caffeine thing. If you need alittle more try chocolate, or some blackjack gum Buzzzzzz!
Click to expand...

Dude, I'm full-on back into coffee again. You see, I am Jack's jones for caffeine. Don't believe me? Just ask Marla Singer. :rolleyes:
 
Hi Folks,
For locking liners 410, 416, 420 and 17-4-ph are good choices.
They hold up VERY well!
 
Thanks for the input guys. Now I have some knowledge to work with. Thanks alot.

Brian

Jeff, Caffiene good!!!!!!! Never use your brain without it!

Looks like I'll be using 410. I figure I can't go too wrong... If I do you'll be hearing about :D Seriously, thanks tons.
 
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