Bob Menard

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A very useful technique is to case harden the bottom tool with kasenite case hardening compound. This can extend the life of a tool you are hammering hot steel into generally past your lifetime. It is inexpensive and a pound of it lasts a good long time. To use, form the tool to your specification, heat to cherry/orange, sprinkle kasenite on, be aware it can smell like you sprinkled a dead mouse on it. Let it crust up then bring the piece back up to temp, cherry to dull orange. Plunge into cold water. often there is a loud pop or bang as steam blows the coating off. This makes the most of inexpensive and easy to forge mild steel.

It looks suspiciously like something that needs a better picture taken of it.

Hello Folks, My name is Bob Menard and I have been Blacksmithing for a long time. I have lurked around this site for a few years and have found some helpful information. There was no specific impulse to join. I just felt I might have something to offer back as re-payment for what I have learned. I have found over the years that Blacksmiths are a generous group with knowledge and advise. Sites like this promote the craft and lifestyle. I have been very active in the New England affiliate of ABANA for a number of years, but I realized I let too much time slip by before joining. ABANA affiliates like the many listed on this site are probably one of the best resources available for Smiths of any experience level. It is a place to gain knowledge and secure equipment. All have get togethers/Meets regularly where all in attendance are involved and enthused in the Craft. I have described the Meets NEB hosts as a weekend immersion in Blacksmithing. We hold 2 of these annually as well as other events. If you haven't sought out the local group of Smiths in your area yet, you are probably missing something valuable. Lets not forget ABANA as a valuable resource. I believe this organization even though it has experienced ups and downs is still important to all Smiths. I have always found just the trade publications to be well worth the annual subscription. I enjoy the Anvil's Ring and at times find it inspiring. It is the Hammer's Blow that is the real gem here. It is filled with useful and helpful "how to" every issue. The new editor, Mark Aspery, is bringing a new focus on a national curriculum that will advance us all. If you don't know about this join today and get the back issues of the Hammer's Blow starting with Vol. 19 #1. It is not too late as he is only 2 issues into it to date. You can still catch up. I hope to spend more time here and try and contribute as best I can around my schedule and life.

This looks like something from a wood stove or furnace