how would i go about hardening blades with out having one  of those 1000 dollar ovens

throw that sucker on the pit and heat it to nonmagnetic (orange) just to where a magnet will stop sticking to it, and then quench it in 130 degree oil. then temper it

what temps do you recommend tempering the blades up to...ive heard 400 is that about right

Would you recommend hardering the entire blade, ie the tang and all? I don't have a forge but will a roaring hot fire in the backyard be qdequately hot?

If you harden the whole blade (tang included), make sure you have all your holes drilled first. I like to harden the actual blade or just the cutting edge before "drawback".
    Make sure to quench edge down or tip down. If this is not clear, please ask questions. We'll help. Lin

what temps do you do the drawback tempering to

oven for an hour or so at 350

10-4 thanks maybe i can get my year in progress first knife done before season

one more?  what type of oil works better for quenching, veg or good ol petrolium oil

It depends, but you will probably get more consistant success with veggie oil. And less flame up. Transmission fluid is supposed to be good, if you can stand the smell. Lin

i use a mixture of bacon grease and veggie oil
with just enough  tranny fluid to keep the flies at bay if you happen to leave it out uncovered
works real good
not to much flame
kevin