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Question:

Flat Steel Bar from Home Depot: What type of steel is this?

I was wondering if anyone knew the grade/type of steel for this product. I'd like to use it as stock for a knife blade, but would like to know the specs so I can determine if it is suitable and, if so, how best to heat treat it.Thanks.PS: I know it isn't stainless, but that leaves a lot of other steel types.

Answer:

1018 mild steel. Not suitable for bladesmithing. If you can't heat treat find an old file, grind it out (keep it cool) and put in an oven 400F. Modern car/truck springs are 5160 med chrome steel, a good blade quality steel and forgiving on the anvil/heat treat.
Home Depot Steel
Flat Steel Bar
That isn't good steel for a functional knife. But that doesn't mean its useless to you. It makes for cheap and easier practice. Its a good idea to screw up a couple of cheap pieces of steel before you start buying expensive blanks. The mild steel will be easier to work with too, so its a good start towards being able to shape a harder piece. Practice a few times withcheap, soft steel. Get to know your tools. At some point the steel will be limiting your abilities. Then its time to start buying the expensive stuff. Steel can be hardened by introducing carbon when the steel is above a certain temp. But its difficult and a little unsafe in uncontrolled conditions. Really not worth bothering with.

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