nickh

Great post.

 

The comments about jobs got me thinking.  Lots of jobs I've started the first day a little apprehensive because I didn't know for sure if I'd do well.  Eventually the job got to be such a routine that accumulated skill went wasted making the days drag on.

 

The addictive ingredient to blacksmithing for me has been the unparalleled freedom to make the tools to make the project.  It starts simple enough - make some punches, chisels, and tongs to make some other stuff.

 

More often than not, these are made out of scrap metal that was free for the asking.

 

Maybe it's because it's such a practical vocation, but it seems as though blacksmithing has an impressive amount of entry-level information out there compared to other hobbies.

Exactly. it can very accessible to start and you can see yourself improve constantly as you keep at it.

Knowing I am still very early days but it does seem to be a craft/vocation/art where you are constantly learning and growing. Though you may spend some time doing the same thing over and over till you have it down, there is always something new or a better way to learn. 

For me it is those skills where growth is limitless keeps me coming back more and more. 

n.

Hello Folks,

As I find myself becoming more and more engaged in the art of forging iron, I feel that there may need to be a warning topic that needs to be pinned at the top of this forum. 

Beyond all the basic implements, techniques and safety items that should be flagged to the those who are new, one item needs  to be put to the forefront. 

Though mentioned in passing, nobody warns you how addictive forging really easy. Though I am doing this as a hobby, after a few months I am completely consumed. From reading everything I can get my hands on, to filling any spare moment at my forge, to practicing hammer throws on the subway and completely neglecting my social life. This field of study has taken me in whole and there is no looking back. In any spare moment I am thinking about how to get better and focusing on the "how to"s and coming up with new ideas.

Take care new folks when wading into this. It will quickly consume you, albeit in a good way, but you should be forewarned.

Regards,

Nick

Thanks for your guidance Billy. I have been forging about 4 months. A while is roughly an hour and half or so and daily or every other day. On closer examination (mimicking my blows with a small hammer and pillow ) I have found I am whipping my  elbow when striking. I am sure this is the source. I should most likely be coming down straight from the shoulder in a smooth motion rather that whipping and twisting from the elbow.

NH

I will admit that I did not read every single one, so forgive me if this is a repeat of sorts but:

I learn more correcting my errors than following my successes. 

Hey folks,

Looking for a little help. I am finding after forging for a while the muscle on the top of my forearm connected to my elbow (brachioradial) gets sore and can stay that way for days afterwards. I have tried loosening my grip just prior to striking but I think the issue may be in the wind up..

Any thoughts / suggestions?

Thanks,

Nick

Hi Folks,

I picked up my first anvil on Monday night, a 150# Mousehole and while forging last night (well picking up a dropped hammer) I noticed the foot on the horn side has an R stamped on it. Based on info I was able to find I understand the other markings and the date range for it but I have not been able to find info on the R.

Any help or suggestions are welcome.

Thanks,

Nick

Just walked in the door from a crazy evening. Long story, but thought I would snap a couple quick pics as I just put it in the work shop and I am excited to share as I can't forge anything at this hour here (After 10 pm). I hope my neighbours are thankful for my considerate nature.

This was bought from a Kijiji ad that was at least 3 weeks old. 150# based on the markings I believe the logo dates it at 1820-1835 according to the info from the ABANA forum. Remarkable condition if the dating is correct. Terrific bounce and decent edges left

I am immensely excited to get this into use. My first anvil and what I think to be a good size for the light forging that I will be doing. In the end I paid $200 CDN plus the 300KM in driving time and gas.

Thanks for the tips and info folks. I think the spikes will be relegated to making coat hooks etc. I do have a number of the ampersand looking clips that ThomasPowers mentioned. A few are being forged into tongs but I will see what else can be done with them. Such a wonderful resource of knowledge here. 

Thanks again!

Nick

Hi Folks,

Not wanting to open a huge debate but I do have a question. As I seem to have an abundance rail road spikes I was wondering if I could craft an effective hot cut tool from a rail spike. I know they are not ideal for knives and fine cutting tools but I am guessing that the quality of steel would be fine for forging some tools. I am wrong in my assumption? Sorry for the beginner question.

Regards,

Nick

Thanks! That makes total sense. I am going to check it out this weekend so I will report back.

Hello Folks,

I have been corresponding with an individual about an anvil and they have indicated that below the Peter Wright name are the letters AT T. I have done some searches but have not been able to find any references to these markings. 

Would any of the experts here have an idea.

Thanks,

Nick

Hello Forum Members,

Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself. I am just a beginner but I am very excited about becoming more educated and skilled as I explore this craft in my spare time. I have been looking around here at the threads and I very pleased to find such a helpful and lively place. I hope in time to be much more of a contributor rather than just a consumer.

Cheers and happy hammering.

N.