David that is very helpful.
I just have the feeling that there is a certain lack of understanding about the the source, value and quality of the materials involved. The difficulties they presented I think we do not understand. It is clear to see the sword is not made from the finest trade steel.
To look at working this valuable material as if it were common place and easily affordable is blinding us to the skill and determination needed to create the sword. It is easy today to make swords when you can buy very good steel to work and play with. If you have a bad batch of steel "unlikely" you would just send it back. I would suggest the sword in question was a struggle to make presentable to the client. You have to admit there are no signs of heat distress.
The fellow that made this probably only had a rag covering his privates. Worked on his haunches without boots or gloves and swore like a trooper at the boys he had helping as it was becoming harder and harder to finish.
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