Thread: RSO # 1

Let's stick to O-1 and not wander around all over the place. It's an unnecessary distraction.

O1 could have a carbon content anywhere between .85% and 1.0%. None of us could predict this accurately in a home shop without the necessary tools. The amount of carbon can affect the austenitizing temperature hence the range of acceptable temperatures for heat preparation. If you had a magnet you have a pretty good estimate of the steel's readiness at austenitizing temperature without having to know the exact specifications of the steel. A low tech solution to an uncontrolled variable. And given how easy O-1 is to heat treat and work with, a good solution for the project we are discussing.

Some times simple things really are the best.