So you can't afford a sword?

by L.Pule
(NZ)

QUESTION: Hi Paul,

Just to let you know you got a great site here. It's full of interesting stuff - but I suppose you already know that.

I am sending this e-mail to show how this site has helped me. Also to show that there is some hope for even the 'poorest' of us all. There is no way that I can even afford a decent sword - a cheap sword - can't even afford a yukky wall hanger. So after some research etc - it was off into the garage. So this is my version of an Oakeshot type X'ish' sword. Made from a car leaf spring - hence that blimin hole. Found out later the spring shop had racks of good sword blanks - they actually thought that they were leaf spring blanks ( ha!). They heat treated and tempered it for me.I worked hard to keep it under 3 lbs ( 2.14 lbs ) - POB is a bit too forward ( but OK) -distal taper was easy - the fuller was hard to do and I worked really hard and got the harmonic balance pretty good.I have made a few knives etc - but this is my first sword - I actually found it easier than knives to make.Not exactly pretty to look at but it works.I was actually going for a 'functional sword'.I think the next one will be better.It owes me $35 dollars.
Anyway thanks.
L.Pule,
New Zealand.

ANSWER: Wow! That really looks very nice, I find it hard to believe that that is your first sword - well done!

You should drop by the sword making section of the forums sometime (if you haven't already of course) - you've got quite a talent, and its great to see that even if you don't have the cash, if you have the time and the inclination, well - you can come up with something that money can't buy!

Keep up the great work!

- Paul