22 die

[hardcase54]

What type steel would you use to make your own swage die set??

[elk hunter]

hardcase54;

If you do a search of this forum you should find all the information you want on steels and die making. Several people that frequent here have suggested what they prefer in steel and offer different ways to go about making your own dies.

After you read up, come back with your questions and someone will surely respond.

By the way welcome.

[deltaenterprizes]

Drill rod is cheap and readily available. I have also used Grade 8 bolts.
Vernon Speer used automobile rear axels to make dies in the 40s.

[BT Sniper]

Yes a search of that very thread will reveal all you need.

I admit I was once new here and probably asked many repeate ?s too.

So why don't we have "stickies" or would that really even be necessary?

[303Guy]

There's a lot to be said for asking and 'talking live' when starting out on a new idea. There's more to it than just getting the information - there's the companionship and getting to know some great folks! (And rubbing shoulders with some great masters!):drinks:

[trk]

What type steel would you use to make your own swage die set??

A2 (air hardening) because I can air harden it. There are other good, perhaps better, tool steels.

[Southern Son]

I like the idea of using the rear axels from cars. Cheap, plentiful and for those of us who don't live in the larger centers, available.