KM18 Knifemaking Kiln
KM18 Knifemaking Kiln
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Product Information
- Description
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PARAGON KM18: Reliable depth for serious heat treating
The Paragon KM18 is a deep-chamber, firebrick-insulated kiln designed for knifemakers and metalsmiths who need a bit more room—without overcommitting to an industrial-sized unit. Whether you're heat treating longer blades, forming small tools, or experimenting with Damascus billets, the KM18 gives you the space and consistency to do it right.
Why own a kiln like this?
Having your own kiln opens up a world of self-reliance. No more outsourcing your heat treating or worrying about inconsistent commercial results. With the KM18 at your side, you gain full control of time, temperature, and cooling cycles—essential for refining grain structure, achieving proper hardness, and getting the most out of your steel.
Why choose the Paragon KM18?
The Paragon KM18 combines time-tested firebrick insulation with rugged construction and modern controls. Its chamber measures 5.5 inches wide x 4.25 inches high x 18 inches deep, offering generous space for standard to long blades, tooling, or multiple small parts. This model uses a single-zone control system and includes a drop-down door as standard, which doubles as a convenient shelf during loading and unloading.
Every KM18 is equipped with the SENTINEL Touch Xpress digital controller, offering precise temperature control, customizable ramp-hold programs, and user-friendly operation. The solid-state relay upgrade ensures smooth power delivery and longer element life, while a built-in safety switch disables power when the door is open.
Who is this kiln for?
The KM18 is ideal for intermediate to advanced knifemakers who need more space than entry-level models provide but aren’t yet ready for commercial-scale production. It’s perfect for custom bladesmiths, part-time makers, and small shops focused on performance and repeatable results. Its size also makes it a flexible option for users working with small tools, punches, and dies.
Available add-ons and upgrades
Enhance your setup with these popular accessories:
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Gas Injection Flow Meter: Introduce an inert gas atmosphere (e.g., argon) to reduce scale and decarb during heat treating.
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Solenoid Valve Kit: Automate gas flow control for precise oxygen displacement.
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Knifemaking Heat Treating Kit: Includes gloves, tongs, quench tank, and safety gear—everything needed to get started safely and efficiently.
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Side-Swing Door Option: Available on request if preferred over the standard drop-down style.
Durable, smart construction
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3" thick firebrick insulation for excellent heat retention
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Recessed heating elements for extended life
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Rugged steel case with durable finish
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Industrial-grade special-limit thermocouple
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Solid-state relay with mechanical safety backup
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Door safety switch disables power when open
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Drop-down or optional side-swing door configuration
Built with pride in Mesquite, Texas
Each Paragon KM18 is handcrafted at our Texas facility using American-made components. We take pride in building kilns that last—backed by years of experience and trusted by makers worldwide.
No specifications available.
Get a Gas Injection Flow Meter (GIFM) and Solenoid Kit
Achieving a clean, scale-free blade finish during heat treatment isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about quality, consistency, and minimizing post-processing time. The Gas Injection Flow Meter (GIFM) is a trusted tool among professional bladesmiths and heat treaters for precisely that reason.
Minimize Scale, Maximize Results
During high-temperature heat treating, oxygen in the kiln chamber reacts with the steel surface, producing unwanted oxidation scale. Traditionally, this has been mitigated using stainless steel foil wrap—a solution that works, but comes with added cost, time, and waste.
With the GIFM installed, you can introduce an inert gas like argon or nitrogen directly into the firing chamber. This displaces oxygen and significantly reduces oxidation, helping you:
Eliminate or reduce the need for stainless foil
Retain sharper blade edges and crisper grind lines
Improve consistency in finish and minimize cleanup
Create a cleaner working environment
Take control even further with the Solenoid Valve Kit, which works in tandem with the GIFM. This upgrade lets you:
Automate gas flow by turning it on/off at specific stages of the firing process (per segment)
Ensure gas is flowing only when needed—saving resources and increasing safety
Achieve repeatable, precision-controlled atmospheres in your heat treating cycles
Perfect for advanced users and production settings, this upgrade transforms your kiln into a highly efficient and customizable heat treating system.
This system has been field-proven by bladesmiths, metalworkers, and heat treatment professionals who demand the best finish and tightest process control.
Whether you’re eliminating scale on high-carbon steel or refining your results with stainless alloys, the GIFM with optional solenoid valve gives you an edge—literally and figuratively.
No manuals available.
No wiring diagram available.
No delivery info available.
