Are old railroad spikes good for making knives?

They do make great ironwork type of pieces, though. Wall hooks and ornamental pieces turn out great. I’ve seen guys make really nice handle guards for big knives with them. Really, the main appeal for using railroad spikes is in forging or welding projects.

Can you forge railroad spikes?

Working with railroad spikes requires all the basic blacksmithing equipment: a forge, anvil, hammer, tongs, and punches. For some of the projects listed below, vices and grinders are also helpful. Other helpful materials and tools that are needed include a wooden handle, chisel, spring swage, and a ball peen hammer.

How long does it take to forge a railroad spike knife?

Step One: Forging the Railroad Spike Knife Blade Depending on your hammering stamina and hand-eye coordination, this thinning process can take some time. Usually it will take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours for a beginner.

How do you make a railroad spike coat rack?

Let’s get started!

  1. Step 1: Measure and Mark Centre Point of Board and Cut.
  2. Step 2: Measure and Mark Holes for Nails.
  3. Step 3: Drill and Glue Scrap Board On.
  4. Step 4: Drill Holes for Spikes.
  5. Step 5: Stain.
  6. Step 6: Attach Railroad Spikes.
  7. Step 7: Hang It on the Wall.

Are all railroad spikes high carbon steel?

There is no such thing as a “High Carbon Steel” railroad spike, but there is such thing as an “HC” “Higher Carbon” spike! This is just a term used within the railroad industry for when to use specific spikes on specific sections of tracks (HC spikes are often used in tight bends).

Are old railroad spikes worth anything?

So, if you want to buy railroad spikes, you can get a single one for about 80 cents to a dollar. However, you’ll pay a lower price when you buy the spikes in bulk, and they’re usually measured in pounds.

What grade of steel are railroad spikes made of?

It has different types on the market: dog spike and screw spike, primarily. Basically railroad spikes are made out of the following materials: Q235 carbon steel, Q 345B carbon steel, Q345D carbon steel, 45# (GB standard) carbon steel, 40Cr steel, 35CrMoA steel and 20MnTiB.

Are railroad spikes worth anything?

What kind of steel are railroad spikes made of?

carbon steel
It has different types on the market: dog spike and screw spike, primarily. Basically railroad spikes are made out of the following materials: Q235 carbon steel, Q 345B carbon steel, Q345D carbon steel, 45# (GB standard) carbon steel, 40Cr steel, 35CrMoA steel and 20MnTiB.