First time san mai

[dereklee12]

I am looking into forging a san mai blade/billet but i am not sure what material should or can be used. I am thinking i can use mild steel and a hardening steel. Can I use 1080 and mild steel from home depot? Definition after etching is not my main concern. forging it successfully and making it usable is what im looking for. I want to successfully pattern weld 3 pieces before i waste my time trying to make damascuss with 7 or more starting pieces.thanks guys.
Derek

 

[bubba-san]

Hello Derek,

yes you can use mild steel as cladding and any good 10x series steel for the core . Should have good definition when hardened and etched.
flux it good and bring up to welding temp 2300f or so. Bubba