I highly recommend 1084 if you are going to do your own HT. If sending it out, I recomens AEB-L or 15N20.
The path to success is filled with both successes and failures. I still have blades that break, shaped that don't come out right, and screw-ups when grinding. My first knife was terrible by my current standards, but I thought it was as good as Jim Bowie's knife when I made it nearly 60 years ago..
The best way to avoid errors is to make a complete plan for the knife before starting. Plan everything from the steel type to how you will profile it to sanding/grinding, HT, handle, sheath, etc.
Draw every knife out on paper in full size.
Look at lots of photos of knives from well known makers. The "gallery has lots of great photos.These can show you what works and what doesn't.
Avoid the temptation of a new maker to invent a new shape/style. Trust me, if it was good, it would already be in use.