adambomber, the fact that you didn't get snippy after many of us (rightfully) smacked you upside the head (so to speak), shows me you have some character and a desire to learn. I applaud that. The "sword" you ground does show promise in terms of being able to keep your grinds straight; I applaud that, too.
Keep in mind that some of these guys are among the very best in the world! Google them. They are remarkably willing to share "secrets" with new makers like me, but they don't suffer fools gladly; their time is very valuable.
Now then, step back for a minute, please. You gotta walk before you can run, friend. READ READ READ!!! Start with the
"Newbies" thread on this very forum. There is an absolute wealth of information in there, compiled for all. Get you some REAL cutlery steel, or at least invest in a good file to temper and grind, and start with a small EDC or hunting knife. Sword-making is an art unto itself; starting out by trying to make a sword is sort of like deciding to build an F1 racecar before you know how to change your own oil.
Will made a good point, too... messing around can get you hurt real bad, real fast. None of us wants to see that happen. Take a gander at the
Shop Safety thread. If you're not willing to learn to work safely and exercise common sense (as in, don't go after a tree with a poorly-made "sword"), no maker is going to want to be anywhere near you.
Also, please see the
"Newbie status?" and
"Random notes for newer makers" threads. Both are recent, and both were started by well-respected makers. They will give you an idea of what questions to ask, and get answers that are useful to you.
I've found through asking my own dumb questions, if you do a bit of research on your own and use that knowledge to ask intelligent questions, these folks around here will almost bend over backwards to help you!
Welcome to the forum... I don't mean to offend you, or put you off this amazingly interesting and fun hobby/business. I honestly hope you take this advice to heart and stick with it.
