this has been exiting reading from the 1st post, good on you for taking on this project.
extremely good going.
I have q number of Strai8's to start on later today, i am a metal polisher of only 3 years but i can't wait to get in there and play. But i think with these old beauties the old saying goes "If it is not Broken don't fix it!" meaning i have seen alot of old blades that have the modern spines on. I am all up for repair but sum of the old character may get lost.
You mentioned about allowing old blades to be sent to us Newbie's to learn on, that would be fantastic.I am in the UK and have already set up where i am going to get my spines pin sets etc and to get my blades honed.
looking 4ward to seeing your finished project.
good luck and well done.
Brian