A smiths point of view is sometimes unwelcome amongst collectors, and I think you are spot on, Jim! No self respecting fighting man would jab his sword into the ground, nor tolerate rust on it in the interest of patina. Black stains, perhaps, but only until it could be properly cleaned.

I am always amused by the "hammered" surface of some things made to look like they were made by a smith with fire and hammer. Often as not it is cold worked dents made with a ball piene hammer. A real blacksmith works to minimize the finishing required, which means as smooth a surface as he can make, generally.


The people who used swords for their intended purpose maintained them as best they could.

A real, sharp, properly made sword is a thing of power and beauty, whenever and wherever it was made.

Enjoy your sword, and keep it clean and sharp.