Dave,
I think that looks awesome. Fantastic grind lines - looks like you've done this sort of thing before. I didn't think I would, but I really like the file lines you left behind.
I have no idea on HT - but a buddy at work has done a 1/2 dozen or so file knives. I'll see if he's done any on a Nicholson and has any advice.
He generally epoxies a wrap over the tang. I think wood would look and work a bunch better, but he's resluctant to grind his own scales. (Or, maybe, buy a piece of wood?)
Your choil cleaned up nicely. In the first shot I thought the guard was a little big - flows more nicely now.
I know you were thinking r.75 on the choil is big. I tried using a 1" D drum on my BK"151" 11 Necker mod, but it didn't hit it right. I wound up using a 2" D Drum, for a 1" radius. It's a little bigger than necessary, but it looks good to my eye and feels great, if excessively roomy, to my hand. I'd love a .75" radius choil. But I have big hands, and can be a little clumsy.
Fantastic first effort. I'd be very proud of that little guy. I hope you get the HT nailed down so it serves you well for a good long time.
