The first part is a standard thermal cycling procedure, which I use. It starts with two descending temperature quenches, and ends with a normalization. After that procedure the steel is ready for the final quench.
Triple normalizing, with descending heats will accomplish excellent stress relief, but won't refine the grain. It is a good procedure for stock removal, where the grain size is normally already fine. The procedure you use will give you good results, and is metallurgically sound.
However, if you forge, the multiple quenches in thermal cycling will refine the grain that may have grown during all the heats. Not doing it won't mess up a blade, but the final grain may be a bit less fine.
My last comment was about using three hardening quenches in a row. This may induce stress, and unless the temps are dropped at each quench, won't reduce grain appreciably beyond the first hardening. My problem with this system isn't the system itself, but the claims of extraordinary grain refinement and higher hardness. Those who want to use this system will make a fine knife if they hit the HT right, but the last quench is the only one that will matter. The long and short of it is that this method will make a good knife...but there is no magic in the procedure.
From the Moderator:
This is an old discussion, with strong opinions on both sides. I will drop it as for myself, now. Those who wish to continue the discussion feel free to do so, but keep it civil. Many of these threads end up being locked.
Thanks for the compliments.
