I am a smith seemingly stuck at 169 forever. I have made 3 belts 2 boots 3 cloaks a BP legs 2 arms so far. It can be made at 169. Biggest obstacle to me is finding sufficient Ivory.
As for why would a war want it? well.. he wouldnt be able to wear the Tribunal stuff he would want the Northman Rallos Zek stuff ( imbued jade?) different stats for the blade users.