[TheForge] Re: wannbe blacksmith

[LrdThorolf at aol.com]

In order  to get started properly , and to take full advantage of this
mailing list,  I'd like to ask the more experienced members a few details
first, if you  don't mind spending a few time to help a young wannabe
blacksmith start his  thing.

1. What tools do I need? Numbers, details...
2. What type of  anvil should I get?
3. Where can I find patterns for what I am supposed to  do?
4. What do I need to make a forge or could I replace that with  something
else for starters?
5. Where can materials be bought?
6.  Some books or other kind of reference about materials, treatment  and
shaping.

I don't know if this is and exhaustive list of  questions, if you think I
missed some details please - fill them up  :)

Andrei

First of all  what to you want to make? Blades, ornamental iron,  camping, etc
 
Then choosing tools, A  blacksmith can never have to many tools.  hammer, 
tongs, swaging tools,chisels, cut off tools, punches, power hammers,  anvils, 
power tools.
Starting off tools will need a few hammers different weights, from 1# to  4#. 
and different types, cross, straight, ball pein, Blacksmith, sledge. It just  
depends on what you like to use and for what stuff you are doing.
 Tongs to hold your stock if needed.
 
As for Anvils, it is up to what you want.or like in what size. Some guys  
like 300# anvils and others like small compact anvils. Some like double horn,  
some like single horn. I  like single horn  and lighter  anvils. I use a future 
2 anvil, top half steel and bottom half  aluminum. 100# can pick it up and 
move it. Has a good surface and long horn.  Best of all no ringing when  
pounding. 
 
Forges, there are coal/coke, propane. Propane is cleaner but there are  
traditional  blacksmiths who swear by coal forges and some who  like propane. I 
prefer propane. It is cleaner no coal dust, no smoke, quick  starting, smaller 
forge.  Propane can cost more to run, have hoses that  could be cut or burned. 
Storage and transportation can be a problem. Might  not get as hot as coal 
depending on the forge. How big of pieces that you are  working with in the forge. 
 Make or buy either way. Something you buy  might last longer with less 
hassles of repair or replacing. 
I like propane, cleaner, no coal dust in lungs, no wet coal quicker to  start 
and get to heating temps.
 
Patterns for what? 
 
Books any and all blacksmith books you can find.
 Practical blacksmithing and metal working by Percy Blanford. basic  stuff
The Art of Blacksmith by  Alex Bealer. good basic stuff.
 
Getting steel  Savage yards can be good, Leaf springs coil springs. 
Steel yard, all  types of steel to make stuff.
It all depends on  what you are looking for.
 
In the long run, be willing to spend money to get what you want the first  
time. tools and forge.
Have fun 
My blacksmithing is a hobby not a full time job.