[Ibrahiim al Balooshi]

Originally Posted by Montino Bourbon

I am an Indian musician, disciple of one of the greatest musicians of the last century, Ustad Ali Akbar Khan. I went primarily to play and enjoy music, and I had a wonderful time. I'm also very much of an appreciators of weapons, and went as far as to take a course in forging swords last year.

That experience changed my collecting forever; I was lucky enough to make an excellent Tanto, so my new collecting standard is that I will not buy something that isn't as good as what I can make myself.

There are very nice pieces being made, but they are not up to the standards of 200 years ago... Yet. Their smiths are learning fast, though. I suspect that they might read up and start trying to make Wootz soon....

I shall try the vinegar etch later today and post the results here. Thank you so much for the info, and I have to mention that I really appreciate your knowledge and your willingness to participate in this forum.

Montino

Salaams Ya Ustad Montino Bourbon! Please take care with hot vinegar as it is agressive and I always treat it like a dangerous acid from the safety handling viewpoint and from the effect on the blade... you will have to watch how long it soaks. Its a trial and error and needs to be watched. Please combine this with what is noted on forum library on etching. Regards Ibrahiim al Balooshi.