Wide stock source

[MustardMan]

First, let me preface by apologizing if this is a really stupid question with an obvious answer... I'm basically toying with the idea of trying to grind some hare brained ideas I've got in my head - this would by my first foray into knife making, and I'm pretty much jumping in heads first with wacky designs, instead of starting simple like a sane person would.

In order to make these weird abominations I'm seeing in my head, I need some wide stock - something at least 3 or 4 inches wide, and not terribly thick. As I fully expect to butcher some of these attempts, something reasonably inexpensive would be a bonus - a simple carbon or tool steel would do the trick. The planned use is something that can take a decent beating, so toughness is definitely a nice bonus.

If I manage to somehow miraculously cobble together something that actually remotely resembles a usable knife, I would be sending it off to someone for heat treat, so something that wouldn't cost me a lot to get treated would be nice too.

Any thoughts for sources of material like this?

 

[Chris'knives]

Any of the supply companies like Pops, Sheffields or Texas knife supply will have what your looking for. You could try Admiral steel they seem to have a large selection. I just put my first order in them so do not have alot to say whether they are good or bad. Thus far I am not impressed with their communication or shipping speed but we will see. You could also try getting some mild steel to work out your designs on before shelling out some $ for good steel especially considering your experience level. Just an idea

 

[P.Brewster]

1075 and 1095 sheet are available. McMaster Carr sells both.