Medieval sword HT question

[SBranson]

So I just finished up this sword last night.

http://www.bladeforums.com/forums/showthread.php/884936

I differential hardened it but in retrospect I wish I hadn't. So if I didn't what would I do differently? I keep seeing guys on youtube tempering their swords and then flexing them like crazy to have them spring back and I have to admit, I'm not entirely sure how to do that..

Just HT normally without the clay and temper regularly?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Flex is not a product of hardness. It is a result of geometry. Make the sword thin enough and temper it at 450-500 and it will be a spring.

 

[SBranson]

Ah.. So this geometry, with the peak would likely never flex much say over a fully convexed blade.. The higher tempering temperatures are what I figured as well though. Thanks!

 

[A. Brett Schaller]

Beautiful sword!

 

[Justin.Mercier]

As said, it's all about geometry. A thin fillet knife may be flexible, but have the same hardness and material composition as a large chopper.

Here's Stacy with an antique blade from a scottish small-sword =)
http://www.tharkis.com/images/hi/ashokan11/DSCN0889.JPG

 

[S.Grosvenor]

Very Nice!

 

[lazlo]

Gorgeous sword Stuart!