Mike Blue, I did not intend to dismiss Kevin as just an assistant. I am sure he is a great smith in his own right. Part of me hopes that the sword is in a museum alongside one of the originals, but I also like the idea of smiths or weapon experts having access to the replica for hands on study.

Johnus, I was thinking the same thing. The documentary posits that the technology came from Central Asia, but where did they learn to make crucible steel?

Mcbladescar, I enjoy watching smiths and other skilled craftsmen work. It is amazing what someone with skill can accomplish with relatively simple tools. They make it look so easy.