Description
1084 - High Carbon Blade Steel Bars
This steel is manufactured in Germany and is supplied hot rolled and annealed. It has a textured surface from the hot rolling process and is soft in its annealed state, making it easy to cut, grind, drill, and file. Exact thickness may vary slightly from batch to batch.
1084 High Carbon Blade Steel is a popular choice among knifemakers for its simplicity, ease of heat treatment, and excellent performance as a blade steel. Known for its high carbon content, 1084 is relatively easy to work with compared to more complex alloy steels, making it ideal for beginner and seasoned bladesmiths alike. It can achieve a fine edge, takes a heat treatment well, and is highly responsive to differential hardening techniques, making it suitable for both small knives and larger blades.
Due to its straightforward composition, 1084 is a high-performance, no-frills steel that is versatile for forging and stock removal applications.
Composition
- Carbon – 0.84%
- Manganese – 0.75%
- Silicon – 0.15%
- Phosphorus – 0.04% max
- Sulfur – 0.05% max
- Iron – Balance
Performance Characteristics
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Toughness 7/10 – 1084 offers good toughness, especially when heat-treated correctly. It holds up well in larger blades like camp knives or choppers and is also popular for smaller, general-purpose blades. While not as tough as some alloy steels, it performs reliably in most cutting applications.
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Edge retention 5/10 – 1084 has decent edge retention for a high-carbon steel, though it won't hold an edge as long as more modern alloyed steels like 52100 or CPM steels. Its relatively simple composition means it’s easy to sharpen, making it a favorite for users who value ease of maintenance.
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Corrosion resistance 2/10 – As with most high-carbon steels, 1084 is prone to rust and corrosion if not properly cared for. Regular oiling and maintenance are required, especially in humid or wet environments. It offers little in the way of corrosion resistance compared to stainless steels or alloy steels with chromium content.
Recommended Heat Treatment
- Heat blade to 800-850°C (non-magnetic stage)
- Quench immediately in medium-speed oil like canola or parks 50 to achieve optimal hardness
- Temper at 150-200°C for 2 hours, twice, to relieve stress and adjust hardness
Note: 1084 is very straightforward to heat treat and can be oil-quenched without the need for complex setups like cryogenic treatment. A basic forge and oil quench setup will yield excellent results, making it accessible for beginners.
Approximate As-Quenched Hardness Before Tempering:
- 800-850°C followed by oil quench – 62-64HRC
Recommended Working Hardness
58-62HRC
