Tool Steel Question

[UMLarcher]

Just a quick question. Being both a knifemaker and a broke college student, I recently raided my shed to see if we had any old steel I could use for knives. Since I've already "borrowed" all the old lawnmower blades, the only thing I could find was an old shovel that we've had for decades and never use. I was wondering if that steel would be any good to work with once I've annealed it. Any input would be great.
Thanks,
Matt

[ermont]

Probably not. Not enough carbon to harden it.

[Cyclic-Rivers]

Check an old Junk yard You may find all sorts of goodies.

[UMLarcher]

Fair enough. Thanks for the advice

[LAR43]

Look in your yellow pages for mower repair shops.
They usually have a bunch of blades they're going to throw out especially in the fall & spring when people are having their lawn equipment serviced.

Larry

[charlie phillips]

What all do yall use for knife blades.I collect knives.would really like to start trying to make some knifes.I'm retired so I have time. THANKS


     TXCP

[Broke another one]

I use any steel I can get. From 3 foot saw blades a friend from work gives me (best score ever by the way) to rusty hatches. Mostly I go down to junk yards and grab good looking steel there. Go to your local junk yard, they will sell you good stuff (even if alittle rusty) very cheap. Of course I'm not nearly as talented as others on this forum.