Paragon Knife Oven - Double Barrel KM18

The 2350°F maximum temperature handles all common blade steels including 1095, 5160, 52100, O1, A2, D2, and high-alloy stainless steels like 440C and AEB-L. The temperature range covers both hardening (typically 1450-2100°F depending on alloy) and tempering cycles (300-1000°F). For high-speed steels and some exotic alloys requiring temperatures above 2200°F, verify your specific steel's austenitizing temperature falls within the oven's range. The gas inlet ports allow connection of argon or nitrogen atmosphere systems to prevent oxidation during hardening of reactive steels.

Many carbon steels can be successfully heat treated in air atmosphere for forged blades that will be ground post-hardening, though some surface scaling and decarburization will occur. For stock removal blades with finished grinds, stainless steels, or when minimal scale is critical, connecting an inert gas system (argon or nitrogen) to the inlet ports creates a protective atmosphere that prevents oxidation and decarburization. The inlet ports come standard on the KM18; the external gas delivery system and regulators are purchased separately based on your quality requirements and production volume.

The KM18 includes a digital programmable controller with basic ramp-hold-cool programming suitable for standard hardening and tempering cycles. You can set target temperatures, ramp rates, and soak times for typical two-step heat treating (austenitizing followed by tempering). For more complex metallurgy requiring multi-step thermal cycles, precise ramp control, or data logging for quality documentation, the Genesis touchscreen upgrade provides advanced programming with up to 250 stored profiles and USB export capability.

The double barrel configuration essentially gives you two independent 18-inch ovens in a single unit, allowing you to run different heat treating cycles simultaneously—for example, hardening one batch while tempering another, or processing two different steel types at their respective austenitizing temperatures. This doubles production capacity compared to the single-barrel KM18S while using less floor space and often lower per-piece energy cost than running two separate ovens. Each chamber operates independently with separate heating elements and temperature control.

Yes. The KM18 includes Paragon's one-year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship when purchased through authorized dealers like Peach State Pottery. You must register your oven within 30 days of delivery to activate warranty coverage. Purchasing through unauthorized resellers or used markets typically voids manufacturer warranty. Peach State Pottery can assist with warranty registration and any service needs during your warranty period.