W2 Tool Steel

Tim Lively

Tim Lively

Well-Known Member
I sure would like to try some new flat bar of W2 tool steel from a source that I feel assured I'm using the true alloy. I've heard old Nicholson black diamond files and a few other tools were made from it but nothing in the US in years. I also hear they have it in England so why cant we get a trade going on between smiths? What resources are there and how can we get some of that freaky stuff?
 
i recently ordered some steel from aldo (new jersey steel baron) and he says he hopes to have more W2 in stock sometime in december.
 
I think I will be trying some of this steel as well. I have seen some of Scott McGhee's blades that are made from W-2 and have wanted to try that steel ever since
 
Thanks for the link. I kept coming across references to Aldo but no website so I'm glad I asked. You would think a knifemaker's supply would see the demand for this alloy.
 
Old aldo had some 1075 made up special , Low count manganese should throw a killer Hamon , if thats what you are looking for
His W-2 is also low on the manganese count , should have similar results .... Good luck Bubba
 
W2 is great to work with.

Maybe try some fresh canola oil for quenching, on pieces up to 3/16 - 1/4 thick at the spine, unless you want to pop for some Parks #50. It needs a fast oil. Un-accelerated petroleum oils, like ATF or motor oil probably wouldn't give as good of results. I've had good results with the canola.... besides it's eco friendly and smells better.
 
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I want to second what Tai said. W2 is great (so is Aldo's 1075 - they are the main two alloys I use. The dao I posted over in the sword forum is a mix of w2 and aldo's 1075). Aldo is a good guy, too.

I use water or parks (and just bite the bullet and lose some).

have fun.
kc
 
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