Ordering steel

[NJStricker]

I've seen several places listed on the various threads here as to good sources of steel--TKS, toolanddie.com, Crucible, Admiral, etc. I realize that TKS is set up to sell pieces to beginning knifemakers who may only want 2-3 feet of steel bar, but what about the other places? Are there minimum quantities you have to purchase? Are some of these places willing to cut for a small charge? For example, Admiral has CR 1095 in 1/8 inch flat ground bar, but in 8 foot lengths. . .

[Bob Sigmon]

Admiral (and I'm assuming everyone else) cuts the longer lengths into UPSable lengths. I just ordered some 5160 that is 224" in length. They cut it to length put it in a tube and send it out.

From the Admiral website store -

** Bars will be cut into thirds to facilitate UPS shipping **

They have always been most accommodating on my orders.

Bob Sigmon

[ranger1]

I order from Admiral.in 72" bars.On my fighters I get an extra knife,as opposed to 36"bars.If you call they will cut to order.Easy people to work with.

[gregrobinson]

Just got my first order of 1095 in from admiral, and they chopped it into 4' lengths for shipping. I was a bit concerned about the 8' lengths when I ordered it, but not to worry. Order away!

[Chris Meyer]

I usually purchase Starrett precision ground O-1 flat stock from KBC tool. They often have steel on sale, listing it as "Made in the USA or England". Whenever I have bought some of the sale stuff, it's always been the good old Starrett precison ground O-1. KBC tools' website is http://www.kbctools.com/usa/main.cfm Search for "flat stock".

[george tichbour]

anything is available if you have time to wait. The long delays usually occur when you order very thick material, like 5/8" thick, or very large like 4' X 8' sheets.

[NJStricker]

Thanks guys! It's about time for me to order some steel for the newbie KITH. . .