Shirou doesn't need UBW to comprehend a weapon. Actually, due to its Sword origin, he can determine the material and the spec of a weapon after some observation (provided his image of the weapon is perfect). For example, he didn't need UBW to trace Caliburn or Avalon to begin with (same goes with the rock sword along with Nive Live Works). I'm pretty sure he tried to "read" Ea in fate route, but was unable to, due to Ea's origins.
That being said, the process if much faster if he is indeed in UBW, considering he has everything at his disposal, be it material, prana and manufacture process.
Last edited by Klashikari; 2011-11-23 at 11:24.
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