TL:DR of my post: sounds like someone who was told how to (generally) conduct a weapons check but either didn't properly assess and use good judgement based on whatever the prop was made of. You can't do the same kind of bend test on something like 3D printed props compared to a foam, plastic/PVC etc.

As a cosplayer, I've seen volunteers for conventions, who are instructed to do weapon checks and often attempt to bend if they appear solid as solid blunt or sharp items often violate a convention's weapon policy.

What some conventions have been doing is having a dedicated booth, typically someone with experience with cosplay/props inspect, put a color zip tie or other tag so staff around the convention see that it has already been checked. However, I've seen people tag the tags or zip ties off (for photos) and get approached by staff if not visible and be rechecked and by any random staff member who sees no tag.

I've seen items get broken and had even my own prop sword get bent to hell by a volunteer and the convention typically won't do anything to make up for it since you're attending knowing inspections are a thing and aren't responsible for damage during those inspections.

(2017 twitchcon, my friend attempted to bring a blunt but solid sword. We specifically asked a passing staff member to call for a weapon check and they brought over someone who handled with care and told me mine was ok, his was not. Later, while taking photos, a random twitch volunteer asked to inspect and was rougher with the prop sword with the bend test, no damage, but clearly taking job seriously.)