thanx for your reply Neil. I was wondering why HT a bolster or a guard? JW

Heat treating steel improves its ability to resist rust rather stainless or carbon steel. It also helps the steel's color match that of the blade in some cases.

Be sure to hit the Reply button when answering a comment on a thread so that you don't start another thread. No big deal, but it makes it easier for someone who comes along later to follow the comments and learn the answers to the original question...

Less scratches, more corrosive resistant, more stable to engrave, easier to finish and blend, worth more, and it is the most you can do with the material available.
Why not cook it?
Hope it helps.

Thank you guys for the info. JW