N690 steel as Razor steel?

[Oomjan]

Hi Everyone!

I would like to know if anybody scratch build a razor? (From a billet). I would like to know what steel was used.

I made one the other day from Bohler’s N690 steel. I was surprised! The edge keeping capabilities were good!(Tempered to 58 RWC) I’ve used a Dovo, and three Henckles for many years, and they are all different.

I’ve made many knifes out of N690 and they were all good, except the wife’s knife – she insisted on something that does not get blunt, we’ve tempered it to the limit and it was above 60RWC. It just did not get blunt – until one day that she dropped it! Pieces! It just shattered like glass!!!

Any knowledge/info on this steel as razor steel??

 

[NoFair]

I have knives in it (N690Co) and they are hardened somewhere between RC58 and RC60. Good edge holding and no chipping issues.

It is suppose to be similar to Japanese VG-10 steel. I'd assume it is more brittle and more prone to cracking than 12C27 which I think is among the most used stainless in razor production.. Edge holding should be better due to higher carbon content though.

Any pics?

 

[Oomjan]

Nothing as yet, sorry - but I'll take a quick one tonight and post it! There are still a lot of improvement on it. I've made it just to see what the edge holding capabilities will be. Please keep in mind no fancy stuff!

 

[Oomjan]

Hi There Again!

Here are some pictures as promised! Please keep in mind I’m still experimenting with the steel and this is definitely NOT SHOW PIECES! I’ve been a knife maker for many years – and I thought, I'll give the straight edge razors a go! My next razors will have some different looks!

This one is to show what hollow ground I went for(Quarter Hollow):
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This one is a thinner one (On request from one of my friends):
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First one I’ve made on a Warthog tusk:
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Closed next to Giraffe shin bone:

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Next to my one Dovo:

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My next straight razors will have scales with Giraffe shin & brass pins. I was in a hurry with the first one and used a spindle we always use on lockblades!

Have fun and regards!

 

[NoFair]

They do look nice.

I'm fond of a quarter hollow, but it looked a bit thick over the edge..

 

[Oomjan]

I’ve gauged it, and its about 100th of millimetre thicker than the Dovo!

 

[Dharion]

Now off with it to the honing!

 

[thunderball]

Nice looking blade you've made there sir!

 

[NoFair]

I’ve gauged it, and its about 100th of millimetre thicker than the Dovo!

Probably just the picture then.

 

[Oomjan]

Yes - it was taken with a cellphone and the quality is not always that good! Sorry for that!

 

[Bacchus]

I like the finger and thumb notch, and the razor looks like a no-fuss good working blade to me. Just needs something to the profile and the tip to make give it that extra flair Can't wait for your next one!

 

[Oomjan]

Hi Everyone!

The second one is now with the new owner! Lets hope it’ll stay sharp! Here are a few pictures on the two brothers!!

Enjoy!

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[danjared]

How is the shaving with the wide shoulder? Does it get in the way or is it not a problem?

I like the simple design. It's very appealing. Makes me think of wood cabins.