I had just returned from looting Permafrost to my home of Rivervale.
I sold my loot, visited the bank, and ran into a high level wood elf
druid. He was seeking a tailor to make the new 100% weight reduction
bags.

I told him I was a level 80 tailor, and level 70 smith. After not
finding anyone better, he and I went to the Vale Forge to try to make
the Vale Sewing Kit I would need. As getting parts for this kit
happens to be my present goal, I was delighted.

He had parts for five tries. In five tries I failed five times, but
gained three levels. Not bad for me, but unfortunate for my new
friend.

I gained also in learning how to get my hq metal bits. I have been
seeking the ore, but he suggested reverse-engineering fine steel
weapons. He said a fs weapon, flask of water, and chisel can break
down the fs weapon to the component parts.

He suggested Hill Giants in Raith Mountains as a good source of fs
weapons to work with. I am nearly leveled enough for that adventure,
and so I may direct my efforts to leveling a bit so I may follow this
advice.

Anyone know of other good hunting which nets fine steel drops? I
expect that my quest to make my Vale Sewing Kit will raise my
experience and my smithing levels quite nicely.

And about reverse engineering. Anyone know much about this? For
example, I looted a chainmail tunic in Permafrost, but it was too
large for my alts to use. However, if I could break it down into
parts and remake it with the correct pattern for a small character, I
could come out ahead. Any idea if this works?

Barto Proudfoot