1060 steel is considered to be a good choice for sword blades and other bladed weapons. Here are some reasons why 1060 steel is highly regarded:

1. Hardness: 1060 steel has a high carbon content, typically around 0.60%, which contributes to its hardness. It can be heat-treated to achieve a desirable level of hardness, typically ranging from 55 to 58 HRC (Rockwell Hardness Scale). This hardness allows for a sharp and durable edge, making it suitable for cutting and slicing.
2. Edge Retention: With proper heat treatment and sharpening techniques, 1060 steel can hold a good edge for a reasonable amount of time. This means the sword can maintain its cutting ability through regular use before requiring resharpening.
3. Toughness: 1060 steel offers good toughness, allowing the sword to withstand impacts and resist deformation without breaking. This ensures the sword can handle the rigors of combat, training, or cutting tasks.
4. Forgeability: 1060 steel is generally considered to be forgeable, allowing skilled swordsmiths to shape and manipulate the steel during the swordmaking process. It can be forged into different blade profiles and edge geometries.
5. Cost-Effectiveness: 1060 steel is relatively affordable and readily available, making it a popular choice for functional swords. It provides a good balance of performance and cost, making it accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts and practitioners.

Overall, 1060 steel is well-regarded for its combination of hardness, edge retention, toughness, and affordability. It is a reliable choice for functional swords and is commonly used in the production of entry-level to mid-range swords.

However, it's important to note that the overall quality and performance of a sword depend not only on the type of steel used but also on the craftsmanship, heat treatment, and other factors involved in the swordmaking process. Skilled swordsmiths and proper heat treatment techniques can maximize the potential of 1060 steel and create exceptional swords.