Barlow’s #slipjoint with integral bolsters, mammoth bark handle, RWL34 spring, and Turkish-twist Damascus steel blade — approximately 3” closed.
RWL34 is a high-alloy stainless steel commonly used for premium knife blades. It’s a modern, powder metallurgy stainless that offers an excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Key points:
Composition: High carbon with added chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium—formulated for good hardness and wear resistance.
Performance: Holds a sharp edge longer than many stainless steels and resists chipping; suitable for both everyday and heavy-use knives.
Corrosion resistance: Better than tool steels but not completely maintenance-free—regular cleaning and oiling recommended in harsh environments.
Heat treatment: Benefits greatly from proper heat treatment; blades made by experienced smiths achieve optimal hardness (typically in the mid- to high-60s HRC) and toughness.
Applications: Popular for high-end folders, fixed blades, and hunting knives where a durable, long-lasting edge and rust resistance are desired.
Bottom line: RWL34 is a premium stainless option that gives excellent edge retention and balance of toughness and corrosion resistance when properly forged and heat-treated.
#handmade #madeinitaly #francescatobladesmith
Barlow’s #slipjoint with integral bolsters, mammoth bark handle, RWL34 spring, and Turkish-twist Damascus steel blade — approximately 3” closed.
RWL34 is a high-alloy stainless steel commonly used for premium knife blades. It’s a modern, powder metallurgy stainless that offers an excellent balance of edge retention, corrosion resistance, and toughness. Key points:
Composition: High carbon with added chromium, molybdenum, and vanadium—formulated for good hardness and wear resistance.
Performance: Holds a sharp edge longer than many stainless steels and resists chipping; suitable for both everyday and heavy-use knives.
Corrosion resistance: Better than tool steels but not completely maintenance-free—regular cleaning and oiling recommended in harsh environments.
Heat treatment: Benefits greatly from proper heat treatment; blades made by experienced smiths achieve optimal hardness (typically in the mid- to high-60s HRC) and toughness.
Applications: Popular for high-end folders, fixed blades, and hunting knives where a durable, long-lasting edge and rust resistance are desired.
Bottom line: RWL34 is a premium stainless option that gives excellent edge retention and balance of toughness and corrosion resistance when properly forged and heat-treated.
#handmade #madeinitaly #francescatobladesmith
