Thanks for the kind words Gents. I recently made a trip to the US to visit another maker. As you can see here I picked up a few skills. Now if I can just remember 1/10th of what I learned I'll be doing OK!
I found the first few attempts I made yielded the same results. So step back and look at it. My problem was with the first strike. I didn't get it centred. So I found some scrap and started slitting and drifting until I could get close to centre. Then learn how to move the metal in the direction you want. ( Not easy) The after a few dozen more you'll be all set. Lots of fun though just the same. Or .....what Frosty said! Forge on!
I think the point was to prove toughness of the tool. This indeed proves it's worthy and tough. High fives for putting your work to the proving ground! Not many would!
If you want more attention post when "Finished" and all gussied up. After finished to a fine grit and a handle on, this will gather more lookers!
Cheers Darren
Made a trip to visit another maker in the very recent past. Saw and learned a ton. Experience of a lifetime and a game changer for me, If I remember 1/100th of what I saw I will be doing good.
Scott, I do finish with gun blue, The brownish tinge must just be hint of reflection. This was a piece of Ladder pattern. It was forged out thin so the pattern is distorted.