Atlas Knife and Tool - 1080 High Carbon Railroad Spikes

Key Differences with 1078 Alloy Railroad Spikes

1. Higher Carbon Content:
   • At 0.78% carbon, your spikes are closer to high-carbon steels like 1075 or 1080, which are commonly used in knife making. This means the steel can achieve much better hardness after proper heat treatment, making the knives more durable and better at holding a sharp edge.
2. Edge Retention:
   • Unlike traditional railroad spikes, which have a lower carbon content and are not known for great edge retention, 1078 alloy will perform much better. The knives will hold a sharp edge longer and can be used for a wider range of tasks, including finer cutting, slicing, and general utility work.
3. Heat Treatment:
   • The heat treatment process for 1078 alloy will be similar to that of other high-carbon steels, requiring quenching and tempering to achieve an optimal balance between hardness and toughness. You can achieve a high degree of hardness, ideal for knife edges, while still maintaining durability to prevent brittleness.
4. Functional Utility:
   • Your knives made from 1078 spikes will have increased functionality, making them more suitable for heavy-duty tasks. They will be comparable to traditional high-carbon steel knives and suitable for outdoor survival, bushcraft, or even kitchen use, depending on the design.
5. Market Appeal:
   • Offering 1078 railroad spike knives allows you to market them not only as artistic or collectible pieces but also as high-performance tools. This can attract a broader customer base, including knife enthusiasts who prioritize both aesthetic appeal and functionality.