Re-pointing a pick

[Tom Allyn]

I have old worn pick that is dulled. I'd like to re-point it. What I'm thinking of is removing a small amount of the worn metal at the ends (maybe 1/2" ?)and then re-pointing the tips at the anvil. Does that sound reasonable? And if so, how should I harden and temper it?

I'm thinking of treating it like a cold chisel, water or oil quenching the tip (1-1/2" or so) for a few seconds and then letting the colors run out to bronze at the tip, then quenching cold. Would that do? What would you do?

It's an old pick of good but unknown steel type.

[Grant]

You got the script I think. In my experience they are usually 1060/1080 and harden easily. Never done one in oil. The one shot heat treat can be exciting in oil. Do it in water just as you describe. Try to run the color twice, purple (not blue) is a good spot.

[Tom Allyn]

Purple. OK, a little softer than I was thinking. Thanks for the tips, Grant.

[Grant]

Well, you could go peacock, probably be OK too.

[Neil Gustafson]

Good Morning,

I have tried straw, with no luck. Might have been a poor candidate. I have done the soft blue with no breakage. Grant's suggestion of a double draw would probably be better.

Double Draw, is that like Double Dipping????

Merry Almost,
Neil

[HWooldridge]

I've done some pick and plow work in the past and found it simpler to just reforge the point and drop 'em on the ground to air cool. Better to have it dull a bit more quickly than break in service (this really applies to plow sweeps). Of course, we have lots of rocks here so a harder point in clay or sand would certainly wear better.

[Tom Allyn]

I finally got around to re-pointing this old pick yesterday. Turns out this old tool had a surprise for me.

[Tom Allyn]

It has a forge welded point!

[Tom Allyn]

The maker's mark is partially obscured.

[Tom Allyn]

On the opposite side of the pick it is stamped "WARRANTED". Anyone recognize the logo? How long ago were they still making picks like this?