chainsaw

I have taken several classes at Campbell and had a terrific time, every time.. In my opinion you get out of it exactly what you put into it, most of the instructors will let you start early in the AM and work til 9 or 10 at night, Lots of opportunity to learn. I've seen some folks just kind of play around and suspect they didn't learn much, but the good news is the place is totally non competitive and non judgemental so it's no big deal either way. In general the instructors I've had were all top notch and so were their assistants..I have learned a lot there and wil go back to take some specific courses. fyi, it's a dry county so come prepared as appropriate.

also this: Link removed at the request of anvilfire

Vash, check this out.. nice washtub forge by Tim Lively Charcoal Forge enjoy..

Olfiar, I would like to suggest that you might consider taking a class or two at a blacksmith school if your schedule and wallet permit. Abana has listed several schools. ([ABANA] Blacksmith Schools and Programs) In my opinion a course is a great way to get going and a HECK of a lot of fun..

Primetechsmith, in case you haven't seen it,the Appalachian Blacksmiths Association have a nice history of blacksmithing on their website.

Rags or cloths soaked with linseed oil must be handled carefully. Linseed oil releases heat as it dries. Soaked rags in confined areas could combust spontaneously. Wash rags after using linseed oil. I darn near burned down my barn by leaving a couple of linseed rags on the bench by mistake which I was using to color some black hot iron. Caught fire about 3 hours later, by chance just happened to take a look at the barn before going to bed, smoke was pouring out of the door. Got it out but just in time.. Still creeps me out, just thinking about it. Now I now you are saying "this guy must be dumb as a post, everyone knows contanimated rags can catch fire". true enough, I knew that also, but I did it anyway. Now I wash them out and then put in the burn barrel EVERYTIME.