[TheForge] Don't laugh too loud

[theforge@mailman.qth.net]

lynn,

if you want to go the scrapyard route try using a chunk of axle steel 4140? or similar? 1-1/4" or so round should square up big enough to punch an eye and have enough meat for the blade? too. in general i would rather forge down to size rather than upset up to size.

also you need a powerhammer. swinging a 6lb hammer will wear out body parts:-)

bob
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>Hope for a little advice from you guys (male and
>female) for a little problem with smiting.
>
>I've been pounding out knives and the occasional sword
>for a couple of years but I thought I'd try my hand
>with an axe. I used a leaf spring, 1/2" X 3" and tried
>to upset for a handle. What I got was either cold
>shuts or when I pounded out during the process of
>trying to upset, it got too long and not enough thick
>enough for a handle.
>
>All this was done by hand, so you know I have a sore
>arm. Couldn't pick up the 6# hammer at the end and
>tried to use the 4#. I'll try again tomorrow.
>
>Thanks, Lynn
>
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