I think I am not near the knife maker that some are here so just to throw something in, starting from say round or square rather than say 3/16 x 1 1/2 flat bar is a more natural proportion for forging, it does not want to form the I beam effect. like Steve stated it will likely take longer and be more work, might have the carbon burned out, or it could be better by not forging in stresses, depends on skills, and equipment. This would really only apply to forged items as removing stock would not cause these types of stress.