Old Sawmill Blade for Knives

[arrowflipper]

I've had my eye looking for one of these for years.And the other day i was given a 56in blade from an old mill.I've never tryed a piece of one for a knife.I know some of you use these old blades,are they good for a knife?This one is very old.Its not rusted up at all.The fellow that gave it to me,always kept grease rubbed on.it.I have no idea what kind of steel it is.Thank You!

[Steve Nuckels]

Probably L-6 steel, if so very good knife steel!
You could use an angle grinder to cut blanks, anneal then layout and profile.  A quick test would be to take a piece and heat to non magnitic, quench in water then let the edge hang over the anvil edge or the vice and tap it with a hammer, if it snaps easly it's high carbon steel.  Also look at the grain it should be silky smooth.

Steve
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Potomac Forge

[arrowflipper]

Steve i thank you.Think i'll give it a try.I'll let ya know how it works out.

[sticshooter]

How thick is it?<><

[arrowflipper]

Frank its a tad over 1/8 in.

[sticshooter]

yeah thats gonna be great steel. <><

[arrowflipper]

Stic thanks buddy!