Rick S

jlpservises:  I've long admired Peter Ross' work since first exposed to him in the Woodwright's shop TV programs. I think that's where I first began to appreciate an appropriate level of finish to the level of refinement of the object. 

To me, most levels of finish are acceptable to my aesthetic, when they do not exceed the level of craftsmanship and the object has a pleasing, functional shape.

For example if a knife has nice lines, but some visible imperfections, I'd wouldn't like it with a mirror finish.

You may wish to read this article as an introduction https://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Down'n'dirty_Blacksmithing/Blacksmithing_Techniques

Welding is a subset of a wide range of blacksmithing activities.

As it sits it's quite magnificent. It's most likely an even hardness across the top. The preheat and the heat affected zone from welding would soften the repaired end. I shudder thinking about trying to heat treat that monster.

My biggest issue with youtube is that popularity is equated with correctness. So popular presenters can become authority figures with their opinions and beliefs becoming de facto truths. Less popular presenters glean information from those more popular and start propagating falsehoods.

I've welded quite a bit with TIG, mostly stainless, but also mild steel, cast iron and mixed alloys, ie mild steel to cast. I try to make my welds flat as they are easier to do and have the nicest result. So if it's an option, you might consider rotating the parts prior to welding. I go as far as rotating a trailer while migging it during construction. And yes, I can weld out of position...

Dumbest welding story. Back in school while welding overhead, my arm caught on fire from some slag. The bead was so nice I wouldn't stop. The class gathered around to see why I was screaming.

Thank you. I also get a Forbidden! 403 etc. as did asf130.

I can neither read the book or get an ebook free button. I wonder if it behaves differently for me since my ip address is in Canada.

I can't find a link to download either.