Meteorites

[Gary Mulkey]

I'm not sure if this is the correct forum for this post but would like your opinions. Though I've never attempted to use any iron meteorite material, I have been fascinated with the patterns that it possesses. I understand that the combination of the iron & nickel and the extremely slow cooling is what causes what is called the "Widmanstatten pattern" which can be quite beautiful.



This could make some outstanding guards & bolsters if the pattern could be maintained. Have any of you tried using this and if so how much heat can it withstand and not lose the pattern?

Thanks,

Gary

[Ed Caffrey]

Hi Gary!

I've done several billets that contain meteorite, and for the most part the pattern remains in tact. A few years ago I did a San-Mai billet for Kit Carson that had a 52100 core with meteorite for the exterior sides. The pattern (as in the picture you posted) was visible right after I finished forging it, and remained throughout the surface grinding of the billet..... from what I've experienced welding seems to have no impact on the pattern unless you fold/weld it several times, then it gets pretty messed up. Also, if you do a lot of drawing out the pattern will stretch in whatever direction the drawing takes place. So it pays to keep in mind the origonal pattern and try to forge things evenly.

[cavetech]

Fascinating. I've heard stories of knives/swords being made out of meteorites, but never heard of it truly being used. Thaky you both for the post.

[Gary Mulkey]

Thanks for the reply. I'm surprised that you were able to keep the pattern after welding. Do you still have any pictures of the billet that you laminated?

Gary

[Shakudo]

more discussion here....................

http://www.knifenetwork.com/forum/sh...ight=meteorite