Stainless Steels and workability

[Southern Custom]

I know that stainless is not everyone's favorite material to cut, but it's a necessary evil at times. Having worked on several different pieces lately, with varying difficulty, I'm wondering if anyone knows the numbers or types of stainless that are the most workable. I'm working with a knife maker that is new to engraving but wants to use stainless on his bolsters. It would be nice to give him some options that would work for me as well.

 

[glstrcowboy]

McMaster Carr's website has some general info on the more common types http://www.mcmaster.com/#about-stainless-steel/=mk8bwq While engraving isn't specifically addressed, the working, forming, and machining charts may give you a starting point.

 

[Charlie]

303 is considered the most machinable, should engrave well also

 

[tim halloran]

Southern Custom: The best is 416, it has enough carbon to make it heat treatable, so tell your maker not to get it too hot and then quench it. It will get hard.

 

[Dave London]

yep 416 not heat treated

 

[BrianPowley]

410 or 416---both machine/engrave well. Most Stainless steel guns are of the 410-416 grade.
303 is harder.