a knife question

[omark]

Mods, if this is in the wrong place please move and punish me accordingly.       .     I built a knife using some steel that was supposed to be made into cutting dies for leather. Not knowing what kind of steel it is, how would you guys recommend hardening it to make a good knife?       Mark

[LRB]

  First, it is never a good idea to use unknown steel when heat treating will be needed. Different steels require different heat treats, and you risk losing your time and efforts.
        However, Since it is done, take the safest route.
        Heat to red-orange in dim light, hold that heat for a minute or so, then quench in a gallon of vege cooking oil that is warmed to about 130°. Two gallons would be better. Once the blade is in the oil, move it fore and aft, or up and down. Keep it in the oil for at least a half minute, or a 30 count.
       Once at room temp, see if you can cut the edge with a good file. If not, you succeeded. Then temper in your kitchen oven for two one hour heats at 400°. Quench in water after each temper. DO NOT trust the temp setting of your oven. Use a separate oven thermometer, and have the oven pre-heated before putting the blade in.

[Bob Roller]

 Before making a knife or anything else from unknown material,take a small piece of it,heat it red hot and drop it into oil or water.Get it out and file test it.If the file slides off then it is a carbon steel.I have a couple of pieces of old 1018 and some identical pieces of 1075. They are easily tested and the 1018 will not harden except for case hardening.The 1075 will make a knife or a spring.

Bob Roller

[omark]

Thanks for the replies, gentlemen.    Mark