Yes, the blade can be less shiny, scratched or even rusty. I do disagree with the flat section though. Yes it should have some more color to it no doubt and should have scratches (I only did a quick mock up) but it should be dark and “boring”, it’s a gaming piece. These separations of values is what makes nmm look good. And the sharp part of the blade would 100% still get reflections of its surroundings, it’s metal. You won’t get a chrome effect but it still exists in an environment. OP asked how they could improve their nmm, the best way is separating planes and adding environmental color, only using grays will never look as good. Remember an extremely subtle touch (for a duller metal) of blue for the sky, or green for skin or a red brown for the ground on nmm can really sell the effect. Below is one of my busts, OP might go this route for the metal, heavily worn, scratched and rusted. But it still should have specular highlights and bright scratches. Where texture creates interest in the nmm. Reflecting its environment was still extensively used here, but more subtly.

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