just for fun.
Attachments
shape is ok,
but get a look at the matcap library and use some that fit, that shiny stuff doesnt look like metal, metal usually needs an environment map to feel real but i found the worn silver matcap to work quite well if coloured even without an environment map
and add a bunch of wear and tear to make it interesting
the often so called “blood” groove (which is actually just a way to lighten and flexibilize the blade) usually doesnt go that far down, for such a long blade youd want a full tang that is sturdy and not weakened by that grove, but i realize there were swords that had it the way you showed it 
thanks for the input. based off the 5 or 6 dozen swords and assorted knives i have hanging around my shop (half of which i actually made by hand) i would say the ‘blood’ groove is about right. ive battle tested quite a few swords with full length grooves and they seem to function just fine under even the most extreme stress…it really is all in the heat treat when it comes to steel.
As for the rest, it was just a simple sculpt for hard surface practice. I am new to ZBrush and haven’t quite got all the textures and environment stuff figured out, making a painted sculpt work with a lightcap is something i still cant seem to make work even after watching the tutorials for ZB4R2.
this model is actually going to be the concept piece for a sword I plan to make this winter, if I can get my forge set up. thanks again, and i plan to keep pluggin’ away with the matcaps and stuff.
