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Post by Afoo on Sept 20, 2016 22:53:20 GMT
So, I do not like nickel plated swords. Normally I am pretty good at identifying nickel plated individuals on e-bay. However, occasionally I run into items like this, where I find it very difficult to determine www.ebay.ca/itm/152237059863?euid=295ccceef92d424f82f908c2468b91e8&bu=44243673893&cp=1&sojTags=bu=buI asked the seller if its plated, but they do not know either, and in return asked if I had a way of telling them apart in person. Short of just looking at it, I have no good test myself As such, I put it to the forums; are there any tests or guidelines to determine if a blade if nickel plated, which I could easily communicate to potential e-bay sellers? - Alex
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Post by bluetrain on Sept 21, 2016 11:51:23 GMT
I don't know either but certain models of swords, including that particular one, will always be plated. The description in uniform regulations a hundred years ago described them as plated. And nickel-plated, too, not chrome-plated, as is sometimes mentioned. I believe some swords and scabbards may actually be chromed, too. These days it's hard to find a new production military sword that isn't stainless steel, not counting those that come from India. Most of the swords from WKC in Solingen are only offered in stainless.
One sure test is to look for rust or chipping.
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Post by bfoo2 on Sept 21, 2016 14:08:00 GMT
I recall seeing non-plated 1897s from the WWI/WWII era. Not sure if the regulation has changed since then. Also, on one of the pictures showing a closeup of the grip and backstrap, I think I see some bubbling on the pommel. I'm not sure if it's there or my eyes decieving me, but if that is true, then it's plated
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Post by bluetrain on Sept 21, 2016 14:17:24 GMT
WKC actually offers them (1897 pattern swords) in plated, unplated and even stainless. But I suspect that most were plated. Wolsey even recommended that officers obtain plated revolvers. But his recommendation for swords was that they be light but sharp.
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Post by Afoo on Sept 21, 2016 15:20:01 GMT
This is an 1950's production, so its possible that its stainless.
Also, the hilt is usually plated, but the blade does not have to be. I believe that WKC offers the three blade finishes, but on a common plated hilt
The etching makes it darned hard to tell ><
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