ball bearings for canister damascus

[Tom Lewis]

I would like to get some ball bearings for canister Damascus. Any suggestions as to where I can get some?
I have seen some "Chrome ball bearings" advertised, but am not sure the chrome would weld to the steel powder.
I have seen where some use 52100 ball bearings. Any idea where they get them?

 

[kuraki]

McMaster has them in many sizes and alloys.

 

[12345678910]

Mcmarter carr, bearing suppliers, Fastenall,

I think chrome steel refers to high chromium steel like 52100, not chrome plating.

If you talk to them you can specify specific alloys.
52100, 440C
There are different grades, you can get the good nice and round bearing types, you can also get lower grade -not perfect roundness or size - balls cheaper.

 

[A.McPherson]

Hey Tom, have you tried universal bearing on canal st. ? I've never been in there, but it's right down the street...

 

[Tom Lewis]

Alen, I haven't tried Universal bearing, but that is a good suggestion.
Thanks everyone for all the good suggestions.

 

[Storm W]

Just a related question. What alloys are usually used to get the contrast? Is the chrome in 52100 enough to set them off?

 

[coldsteelburns]

Get some 52100 ball bearings and nickel plate them for the dragon skin effect

~Paul
My Youtube Channel
... (Some older vids of some of the older knives I made)

 

[kuraki]

Just a related question. What alloys are usually used to get the contrast? Is the chrome in 52100 enough to set them off?

No. 52100 etches black. This is 52100 ball bearings from McMaster and 1084 shot in 4600kc powder. The nickle kc powder is what makes the contrast.

McMaster sells stainless steel ball bearings if you want silver balls set in black.

 

[Tom Lewis]

Thanks, Kuraki, beautiful work.
The canister I plan to forge is 2" tubing with 1084 powder and pieces of chain saw. After that I would like to try the ball bearings.

 

[argel55]

Tom check out this.
Bearingballstore.com

 

[Tom Lewis]

argel55, thanks for the suggestion.