Replies to This Discussion

KnifeMakerPermalink Reply by tkotavuopio on March 4, 2011 at 12:13

old saw blades are usually good 75Cr1 or 80Crv steel

Permalink Reply by Adlai Stein on May 5, 2011 at 21:22

Leaf springs are generallt 5160 and files areoften 1095. I have used recycled steel many times but let me sugest that you buy it new. It's not always expensive and you'll now that it doesn't have any stress fractures in it. I buy a good deal of my steel from Aldo Bruno njsteelbaron@gmail.com. Aldo is a knife maker who is selling high quality steel at good prices. Send him an email and see what he's got.

Permalink Reply by Terry Waldele on February 16, 2012 at 19:27

Good question, Michael!  In that same vein, I've seen several used scissor-type hedge clippers for sale at local thrift stores, and you could make two massive blades out of each of them.  Since they are tools, I'm inclined to assume that they're made of tool steel that would make a decent knife blade.  Can anybody out there tell me what kind of steel they are probably made of?  Thanks.

2021 CalendarPermalink Reply by Randy, HHH Knives on January 16, 2013 at 21:58

If you want a steel like 1095 I recommend starting out with a good used file. These are often made with a good steel that can be hardened and will make a very serviceable knife.. Most lawnmower blades, or hedge clippers etc. are a low carbon steel that wont harden properly for a knife blade.   Some of the larger band saw blades will also work well for a knife.  

here is a damascus filet blade I made with some band saw blade material and some 1080 high carbon steel.