440C s.s.

[DANA HOLMAN]

i've used 01 tool steel for all my knives and would like to try one with 440c, i need to know how to heat treat it and quence it (oil or air) and tempering,
i've heard 1800 degrees and 2 hr. one time, but i need to know from you guys
thanks
dana

[Wampus]

Crucible says quench in oil or air from 1850-1900 for maximum hardness.

Paragon kiln's website recommends holding at 1850 for 20-25 minutes and then cooling with a fan.  Make sure the fan is sevaral feet from the blade and the blade is pointed into the air stream.  If the air is blowing on one side, it can cause warpage.  Then heat to 300 and soak for two hours for tempering.

  http://www.paragonweb.com/files/manuals/IM70_HT_KM_Manual.pdf

Just wanted to add that I've never worked with 440C myself.  I've had good results quenching ATS-34 and CPM-154 in oil from 1950 degrees.  No warpage so far.

[Jeremy]

http://www.admiralsteel.com/reference/sstltech.html

You're going to have a hell of a time getting 440C up to the proper temperature with your set up, and you won't be able to hold it there accurately even if you do.  

If you're set on making a knife out of 440C, send it out to be heat treated properly.  440C makes a decent knife when it's done properly, and isn't worth the handle material if it isn't.

The edge holding ability is mediocre at best.  There are MUCH better stainless steels out there.

[DANA HOLMAN]

Thanks guys
sence i don't have the right set up like Jeremy was talking about and i don't. if any one want's to trade a 1 1/2 x 1/8 inch x 18 inch peice of 440c for a peice of 5160 of the same size, let me know
thanks dana