W2 Bar Stock Steel .125" Thickness - See Length Note
W2 Carbon Steel
LENGTH NOTE:
We buy this in 36" lengths and sell it in 12", 24", 36" lengths.
If you buy 1ea, you will get a stick 12" long by the width and thickness shown.
If you buy 2, you will get a bar that is 24" in length.
If you buy 3, you will get a bar that is 36" in length.
**If you buy 2 or 3 and want it cut into 12" length pieces, please specify in the comments section that you would like them cut into 12" pieces.
**Advertised price is for 1qty 12" piece
W2 is a low alloy tool steel that is tough, takes a very sharp edge, and can produce an excellent hamon. Many swords and larger blades are made using W2. It also works great for hunting or kitchen knives. This steel is malleable and easy to work with and forge.
W2 is more difficult to heat treat than other carbon steels. It requires accurate temperature control and a very fast quench. Some makers quench in water or brine, but Park's 50 will be much less likely to cause cracks or warping.
Composition of W2 Steel
C- .916
Si- .295
Mn- .215
Cr- 0.069
V- .165
This steel is fully annealed (soft)
Heat Treatment for W2 Carbon Steel
Place blade in forge or Heat treat oven pre-heated to Austenitizing temp 1450°-1475°F (soak for 5 - 15 minutes if using a heat treat oven)
Quench in fast oil like Park's 50
Temper between 350° to 450°F twice for 2 hours each time. Cool to room temperature in between tempers.
Use 350°F for hardness of 63-64 HRC
Use 400°F for hardness of 60-61 HRC
Use 450°F for hardness of 57-58 HRC