Father and son knife making

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wolvesdread

New Member
My son (14) and I are working our way though "Making Full Tang Knives: For Beginners" by Stefan Steigerweld & Peter Fronteddu.

We just started and were looking for the materials. The book suggested RWL-34. We didn't find that immediately but did find CPM-S35VN (which according to wikipedia is an improvement on S30V which was another option the book gave) on usaknifemaker.com and subsequently found our way here.

We haven't made the purchase yet though and wondered if anyone here had any suggestions or comments regarding using the s35vn over the rwl34 or not?

Thanks!
 
I could be mistaken, but I believe RWL-34 is the same as 154CM. A newer formulation is available, called CPM154CM. Another option is AEB-L, which is loads cheaper and is a fantastic steel. There are plenty of excellent steels to choose from. All of these mentioned are stainless steels and can be a little tough to work if you are using hand tools. There are so many great steels out there, no need to get hung up on a specific kind, especially a high-end expensive steel, unless you have a specific use in mind that calls for it. New Jersey Steel Baron (NJ Steel Baron dot com) is a great place to buy cutlery steel.
 
I am a new knife maker as well but everyone here is telling me, and others that 1084 or 1080 are easy to work with and easy to heat treat. Here and on other forums those two steels are the two that are mentioned for new makers. 1084 being the best for beginners. I also agree that NJ steel baron is a very good place to buy steel. Welcome to the forum and it is good to see a father and son working and learning together. Ed
 
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