I'm just excited to finally be a 1%er! Marc1, I think you are correct. Most newbies are influenced by the TV show. When buying my anvil, post vice etc, all the sellers assumed I'd be making knives, they didn't know what to say when I said I had no intentions on making knives or swords.
Nothing against those who's desire is to make knives and swords, I admire the craftsmanship. I wanted to get into blacksmithing to make practical things I can use and decorative items the Mrs. will like. I'm still very new and enjoy learning from taking classes, reading and of course utube. I just completed a tong making class, all of a sudden 50.00 for a nice pair of tongs doesn't sound so bad. I enjoyed the class, made two tongs and will no doubt make more as needed, but I enjoyed learning the skills, talking with my classmates and the instructor more, learning why they started, what they make etc.
im still excited to finally be a 1%er!
Duane