Thanks Lew,
for clarifying the situation. I can see now, that stock removal is most likely. I have seen some shear steel blades that when etched gives an 'indication' that its wootz.
I also have to admit....that I 'flip out' ....if I believe any of my new aquisitions are wootz
Sadly, they never have been
....but maybe...just maybe.. the next one will be
The trouble is..being near the bottom of the 'collecting food chain', I have to rely on good pieces being 'missed'....the proverbial 'sleeper'.....an increasingly 'rare' occurance....still...I live in hope
Regards David