03-12-2018, 05:40 PM
O1 is my current choice, mainly because I was able to get a large amount cheap. when you buy the O1, find a brand name that has 0.2% vanadium in the alloy, helps maintain very fine grain. for O1 I heat to 800C and hold for 7 minutes if thickness is 1.5mm or less and 15 minutes for 4mm thickness. I get an as quenched hardness around Rc65-66 and usually temper at 175C to 200C which should be Rc 62-63 which is O1 sweet spot for hardness and toughness.
80CrV2 is a good steel for all size knives. I usually heat to 800C for the same times as O1. good luck and happy knife making.
scott
80CrV2 is a good steel for all size knives. I usually heat to 800C for the same times as O1. good luck and happy knife making.
scott