El Cordobes "willing" the Estoca to perform it's function.

Note the curve on the Estoca? It is designed for instant death. It is not the straight "sword" used with the Muleta to "play the bull in close." There is a reason why El Cordobes was the highest paid Matador in history. Quite simply, he was the best at what he did and the instant kill. If there is a lot of blood and not an instant kill that is incompetance. And it is not rewarded and most importantly, it is not revered. Except by a few close friends and family. But even they will walk a way from a total numbnuts.

Note the Banderillas "packed" for transport/shipping with a simple cork on the point. The side barb is not sharp, it is only to keep it from falling out of the skin. Oh wait, as per the explanation below of a hook, the sharper it is the less damage it does. They need to get a whet stone on the barbs!!!!!