Problem with 52100 or just me!

[Doug Campbell]

Hmmm... this is prooving interesting.... Lin, I watched Ed Fowler's DVD where he's forging his 52100 a while back and it seems he was forging at just over critical temps. He specified forging at lower temps, seems I remember something about never getting over 1700º. I'd be real surprised if Jeff got too hot in his forge...

Did Ray happen to say what temps he's forging this stuff at??

Got another couple feet of this cool stuff not to mention five or six of the John Deere load shafts.... Lots more fun!!

[Lin Rhea]

Doug,
      I too dont think Jeff got it too hot, but the steel ( according to Ray) will get those ice like cracks in it when you continue to hammer on it after it's too cool. Whatever the range is, and your equipment, lighting, forge, etc. along with your particular experience using this steel, you have to play by it's rules. This might take a little time to play around with and get right. Ed knows his stuff, for sure. I'm thinking that there are two parts of this process that Jeff needs to adjust. Deciding what levels of temperature range and staying in that range while hammering.
     Jeff, just as you know the particulars of 5160 , you'll get to know 52100.
     I would do some test pieces (not actual blades) and get to where I'm satisfied that I can duplicate the results. Taper a few pieces of 52100 and do each one a little different, keeping up witht he particulars for each. What do you think?       Lin

I'll be awy for the day. Some more makers and myself are going to Little Rock to the Big Buck Classic and do some forging and cutting for the folks attending. I hope to have some photos soon. Thanks

[tippit]

Well I finally got it to a great edge.  I put it back in the oven at 455 (= to around 470 F in my oven) for two hours...my wife will be happy with me when she gets home as this temperature really cleaned the stove  :rolleyes:   Back to the knife, it finally took a keen edge with the Gatco.  What's amazing is the difference in tempering color between 5160 (straw/bronze) to 52100 (now a deep purple).  Both have nice sharp edges.

I know I'll have to make some adjustments on the next 52100 blade...less hammering, no packing of the blade edge, and working it hotter & quicker.  It's been fun trying something new.  Especially since this steel is highly regarded in holding an edge.  All in all it has been a really great experience with the friendly help here.

Now to test the blade...Got Buffalo Doug?  Doc

 

[d. ward]

Jeff,that bottom one is a good looking blade there kid..Marble was using that 52100 in there newer knives.Not sure if they still are or not.I really like the one I have made of 52100 thats some good steel.bd

[Doug Campbell]

Come on out Jeff, we're killing the last bull of the season this coming Saturday    I'd love to test that blade on it!!

I got ya Lin, I do remember Ed saying it was a pretty narrow window for forging, guess cause he was starting at such a low temp. Hope you had a great turnout for the show today.

[tippit]

Hey Bowdoc, You'll have to try them out in bear camp.  I'll do the dishes so you can get out of the kitchen   ...the other Doc

[d. ward]

You got a deal there buddy,Will that upgrade my ranking to bear skinner??? rather then dish washer?? I am moveing up in the world......See ya soon,bowdoc

[Montauks]

Thanks all for the open exchange of information, it's much appreciated.


Grasshopper