I would suggest tempering the blades after hardening or they'll likely be too brittle. A lot depends upon the particular steel but you'd typically heat the blade slowly until it turns to a straw to blue colour then stop. I apply a bit more heat to the tang than the blade when tempering as it doesn't need to be hard and you don't want it snapping.

If anyone wants some bog oak or silver ferrules, etc. or any advice then drop me a line,

Regards,

Rab

Sgian Dubhs, etc.