Savage11 Posted March 10, 2021 Share Posted March 10, 2021 Hello all, I acquired 12 ft long shear blade off of a sheet metal shear that is capable of cutting 1/4 mild steel. Would this material be suitable for knife making? The blades are super hard, I had a hard time cutting the blade in two via a three phase plasma cutter. Any and all information is welcome. The repair man that replaced the blades at work didn't know what exact grade of steel the blades are. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThomasPowers Posted March 10, 2021 Share Posted March 10, 2021 If it is one of the high alloy ones; then heat treating a knife might be very difficult and forging and working would be tough as well. I suggest you research what alloys replacement blades are currently being made from to get an idea of the possibilities. You can also do a grinding spark test to get data on what it might be. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Savage11 Posted March 10, 2021 Author Share Posted March 10, 2021 From what I've read on line, I think it maybe high carbon chrome steel? These blades are probably 30 years old if not older. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Steve Sells Posted March 10, 2021 Share Posted March 10, 2021 could also be D2 or A2 as well Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Savage11 Posted March 10, 2021 Author Share Posted March 10, 2021 3 minutes ago, Steve Sells said: could also be D2 or A2 as well I read that as well. Heck, I guess it's worth a try at forging. The only thing I have to lose is coal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
ThomasPowers Posted March 10, 2021 Share Posted March 10, 2021 Try the spark test first! If it's a HSS it will have a dull spark with no branches. They tend to be hard under the hammer even with heat and may cottage cheese on you if overheated. Correct heat treat to get the best from the steel may be impossible with blacksmith methods . Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Savage11 Posted March 11, 2021 Author Share Posted March 11, 2021 Ok, that's good to know. Sounds like it's going to be a gamble. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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