Upon further reading and consideration, I've ordered the Military Heritage Scottish Highland Regiment Officer Sword (ER II Version). According to their site, this was supplied to the Canadian Scottish Regiment (Princess Mary's). They have supplied other Canadian regiments with other pattern swords as well. In another description they refer to these as "ceremonial swords."

Despite the fact that they are not true "fighting swords," (my terminology), they are of sufficient quality and utility to be used by genuine military units.

Regarding the blade:

Blade: Made of AISI 1065 High Carbon tempered Steel which matches the sealed pattern. Why not stainless steel? High Carbon steel has a tensile strength like fighting swords whereas stainless steel is brittle and tends to shatter when struck with force. Therefore if the swords, for example, are used in fencing demonstrations they are designed to withstand reasonable contact with objects. Each double-fullered blade is acid etched with Scottish Infantry pattern markings including the ER II Royal Cypher.

The images on the website show a stunningly beautiful sword. I encourage anyone interested in these to take a look, and read the description. I think the price is great, too, $299 on sale now (normally $359), plus $29 UPS shipping to the U.S. They are in Ontario. They charge U.S. customers in U.S. dollars, which saved me the ridiculous foreign exchange fees that PayPal and credit card companies charge. If you want a Leather Sword Bag and Chamois Cover they have that, too, at a very attractive price.

(I have no connection with this business, and no experience so far.)

I will probably return the Pakistani one when I receive it (seller pays return postage!).

So, in summary, this is exactly what I was looking for, and, judging by its use in the Canadian forces, the real thing, as far as I'm concerned!

I'll post a review when I receive it.

Regards,

jv