RE: [HOE] Two weapons fighting

[Michael Watson <mwatson1@bigpond.net.au>]

>I don't know enough about industrial steel-making processes to really
>comment on whether its better or worse than hand-forging. As for stainless
>steel being weaker than other steels... sure, fine, but the other steels are
>much more prone to corrosion or oxidation, and in the long run the stainless
>might last longer in a wet or corrosive environment.

I only know about knives, but when it comes to them generally you have the 
choice of stainless steel or carbon steel. The basic properties of both are:

Carbon Steel
Rusts unless cared for
Holds a sharper edge
Easier to sharpen

Stainless Steel
Wont rust
Holds it edge for longer
Hard to sharpen

Generally stainless steel is seen as better because there is less 
maintenance involved. The strength comes down to the temper of the blade, 
under-tempered gives strength but a poor edge, over-tempered ones may shatter.

Not sure how this applies to swords, but I thought I'd throw it in ;-)

- michael


"It is unlucky to be stubborn in the face of insurmountable odds."

"Coming to an impasse, change; having changed, you can get through."
- Tao Te Ching