That hole is rough huh? I think both pieces of steel you're using is 5160. When you get it closer to finish and start grinding, etch it like a damascus. If there is color differences of lighter or darker the darker has the higher carbon content. With you using a coal forge you should have some carbon migration may be minimal but some should transfer between the 2 pieces and from the coal.
I think the 2 steels are slightly different because the bulk piece is a couple decades (at least) older and the spring steel off my truck may be an alloy (It doesn't weld as easily---burns quicker.) Wait til the part 2 video. You'll see the issue. Rust belt stock is always a gamble, lol. The spring steel is great for a water clay-quench edge. I will test the gear shaft further. I think by itself it is axe edge worthy. Wish i had more.
That hole is rough huh? I think both pieces of steel you're using is 5160. When you get it closer to finish and start grinding, etch it like a damascus. If there is color differences of lighter or darker the darker has the higher carbon content. With you using a coal forge you should have some carbon migration may be minimal but some should transfer between the 2 pieces and from the coal.
I think the 2 steels are slightly different because the bulk piece is a couple decades (at least) older and the spring steel off my truck may be an alloy (It doesn't weld as easily---burns quicker.) Wait til the part 2 video. You'll see the issue. Rust belt stock is always a gamble, lol. The spring steel is great for a water clay-quench edge. I will test the gear shaft further. I think by itself it is axe edge worthy. Wish i had more.