[TheForge] Re: [kl] So you think you're a metal smith, eh?

[Aaron Silver]

At 06:39 AM 2/7/2005, you wrote:
>Hi Doug, If you've taught this class previously - I have a question that I
>don't know the answer to right off.
>
>What is a native metal?  My initial thoughts would be something on my steel
>rack - but I'm rather sure that isn't the answer they are looking for.  Have
>you fielded this question before?

According to the Boy Scout manual:

Native Metals are those that occur naturally in a nearly pure form.

>The other thing I'm in doubt on is the three types of molds in casting.
>I've heard of sand, lost wax, and investment casting - are these the three
>types of moulds in casting?

The manual lists Lost Wax, Rammed Sand, Metal molds and Rubber Molds.


>.......So, I guess I've just failed being a scout that could pass the merit
>badge test.........and I've been practicing for 43 years.   :-(
>     The format does seem well laid out and would require someone to do some
>homework before getting their badge.
>
>     I'm asking, as a local historic farm's blacksmith shop commissioners
>have asked I teach the local scouts this merit badge program.  It would be
>nice to know some of the answers ahead of time. They probably wouldn't be to
>impressed if I was looking everything up to answer their questions.
>
>Ralph

I went to the local Boy Scout office and bought the merit badge book, 
although the local troop was willing to purchase one for me. (I wanted it 
quicker than they would be able to process it through their system)

I think I paid between $5 and $8 for the manual.

The manual contains all the answers that are asked. It's up to the scout to 
basically read and regurgitate, and of course to learn the hands-on aspects.

Aaron