Yes, 9260 is considered a good steel for swords, particularly for functional and durable blades. It is a type of spring steel that is highly regarded for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to deformation. The main alloying elements in 9260 steel are silicon and manganese, which contribute to its desirable properties.
The high silicon content in 9260 steel gives it excellent springiness and resilience, making it well-suited for blades that need to absorb and withstand impact. This characteristic makes it a popular choice for swords that are intended for cutting, such as functional Japanese-style swords and European-style swords.
Additionally, 9260 steel is known for its relatively easy heat treatment, which allows swordsmiths to achieve the desired hardness and toughness through the appropriate quenching and tempering processes.
It's important to note that while 9260 is generally considered a good steel for swords, the overall quality and performance of a sword depend on various factors, including the heat treatment, blade geometry, craftsmanship, and the skill of the swordsmith. These factors work in conjunction with the choice of steel to determine the final quality, durability, and performance of the sword.