Would an ammo can work?

[L6steel]

I picked up one of those tall 30 call ammo cans. It's about 18" tall 6" wide 12" long and I was thinking it would be great to use a quench tank. The lid has a rubber seal in it and there's a handle on top so it'd be easy to move around.
I could get a hot plate a thermometer to warm the oil.
I was just wondering if it's ok to quench blades staight down in oil?
I bought three 3 quart cans of olive oil but I haven't put it in the ammo can yet.
Thanks for any help you can give me!!
Michael

 

[jonvalblades]

ya it would probably work

whatever you want or need
My quench "tank" is a coffee can! when i need to quench something large i just run to a faucet

 

[peter nap]

It will work fine for smaller knives. I have one of the cans that I guess is for some kind of rockets but it is just like the 30 cal just 4 feet high. It holds about 15 gallons and I recycle the oil from my turkey fryer in it.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Should work fine.Forget the hot plate.Just put a bar of 1 inch mild steel in the forge and when it is red hot stick it in the oil and stir around.It will only take two or three of these dips to bring the oil up to temp.I use a 4 inch shell casing for my long quench.There is no problem with quenching straight down (although I am sure there are those who disagree).

 

[TimWieneke]

I don't know if it's for .30 cal ammo, but I have one that's bigger with a completely removable top and handles at the sides rather than one at the top. I use it on simple carbon steels with ATF fluid. Works fine for me.

I used to have the smaller one set on the floor with the hinged top that would stay attached, but a little quick footwork on my part and oil was spread all over the floor whilst I was holding a red hot blade in tongs. All I neede was a looney tunes soundtrack in the background to complete the effect.

Tim

 

[Sando]

That's what I use. stable, steel, and shuts tight when not in use.

Steve

 

[Todd Robbins]

L6stee,

An ammo can like you described is just like Terry Anderson down in Naples uses for a quench tank. For my edge quenching, I use a big cake pan I stole from my wife.

Todd

 

[L6steel]

Thanks guys!!
I thought it would be okay, was just worried about sticking the blade that deep into the oil.
Take care!!
Michael