Need tips on bending annealed steel

[Phil705]

I cut out the profile of two hidden tang knives. I cut the handle to have a slight curve, but I'm considering an antler handle. Is it advisable or possible to bend the handle (1/8th steel, about 1/2 inches "thick") to better fit the curve in the antler? It has not been heat treated. How? Tips appreciated.

 

[rocketmann]

Lock it in a vice heat it with a plumbers torch to red then bend it how you like.

 

[LRB]

Cold bend it. Heat is not necessary for this, and depending on the steel, it may air harden, making drilling a pin hole difficult if you wanted a cross pin.

 

[SBuzek]

If it doesn't need alot you can bend it cold.
Stan

 

[Phil705]

Thanks for the replies. I'll try to cold bend it, and if that doesn't work, I'll ensure my holes are drilled and try heat.