Proper steel for DIY Reamer?

[jkpq45]

I've seen a lot of talk regarding O-1 or other tool steel for making reamers, but was wondering if anyone's used any of the following for making reamers instead (as this is what the local shop has available):

1144:  This has the highest carbon content available of the three alloys (0.44%).  Hardenability is being researched.

12L14:  It's evident this will be a joy to work with (free-machining) but not so sure of it's durability.

4140: Might be the hardest available (as it comes to me--Rockwell C17 or so).

Comments are all welcome, looking to add to the stable of GBO rental reamers for not a lot of dough.

-jkpq45

[Alphawolf45]

I have not used the metals youre asking about- not for making reamers... I make my share  of reamers.. I prefer making from HSS tool blanks..Grind to shape and then cut the flutes using carbide endmill. back to the tool grinder to sharpen. No heat treatment required.

[jkpq45]

Thanks for the advice.  I ended up finding a deal on O-1 from a seller on Amazon.  Now, to see if I can get my milling attachment and spin index working on my 9x20 lathe!