Thanks for the additional information Charles. The possible forward extension of the hardened edge seemed to be obscured by the glare in the original photo. I did not realize that the hardening stopped there.
Yes, it seems a bit odd that the hardened edge would not extend all the way to the tip. It's not uncommon to see a hardened edge stop short of the hilt, but not short of the tip. Is the blade etched or is this the natural polish? Etching/further etching might show something more towards the tip.
Ian
|