Difference between handmade and hand forged swords

[Japanesesword]

Hi all,

What is the difference between a handmade sword and a hand forged sword?

Thanks in advance,
Japaneses

[drdata]

Well, I'll take the proverbial stab....

Both are finished by hand, which is to say the use of files, stones, sens, or sanding belts.

Forging involve heat, and typically folding to distribute carbon and remove impurities. Once a blank is forged, then stock (material) removal comes in to refine the blade shape. In a stock removal hand-made sword you begin from a bar of steel, and remove that which does not seem sword like. There is no need for heat, or hammers.

When done, both are heat treated and tempered for use.

HTHs