All those that watched Craig (Seraphim) create Monty may not know, but Monty's blade developed a severe case of dullness, and after repeated attempts at healing, Craig was forced to take the ultimate action - Monty was liberated from it's blade. I was the lucky guy that wound up with this exquisite set of python scales, and debated furiously as to what heart Monty would ultimately receive. The size of the scales dictated the blade Monty would ultimately receive, but I added a few other requirements like a barber's notch, 6/8 or wider, and quarter hollow ground. As Monty was gasping for a new heart, I took my time until I found a blade that would satisfy as many requirements as possible, and that would do justice to Monty.
After a few weeks I decided to install a new John Jay heart into Monty. I didn't get the quarter ground but everything else was achieved. Even the length of the blade was an exact match with less than 1/16 of an inch to spare between the blade tip and spacer. It was a moderately long operation, and the first attempt was unsuccessful - Monty took a turn for the worse on the table and did not accept the pin without bending it. I allowed Monty to rest for an hour, then attempted the transplant again. I'm happy to report that Monty has accepted the new blade, and after a good amount of time for proper honing and polishing, I took him out for a spin this morning. He shaved very well and handled the new blade with ease.
So all of you that were rooting for Monty to get a new heart as well as recover fully, your prayers have been answered. Monty is adjusting well to his new blade, and they seem to have taken to each other very well. Some photos are below. And thanks to Craig for catching the disease early as well as taking the extreme measures to liberate Monty from a sick blade!
