Blacksmithing Tool Guide and Directory
Blacksmithing is a traditional trade that involves shaping and forging metal using a variety of tools. These tools are essential for shaping, heating, and cooling the metal to create a wide range of objects, from simple household items to intricate works of art. In this article, we will discuss some of the most commonly used tools in blacksmithing, including their uses and how to properly care for them.
Anvil
The anvil is the most important tool in blacksmithing, serving as a solid surface for shaping and forging metal. It is typically made of cast iron or steel, and can weigh several hundred pounds. Anvils come in a variety of shapes and sizes, but the most common is the “London pattern” which has a horn, a round face and a flat surface. Anvils are used to shape metal by hammering it on the flat surface and using the horn to create curves.
Forge
The forge is used to heat metal to a high temperature so that it can be shaped and forged. It is typically a steel or cast iron container filled with a fuel source, such as coal or propane, and a blower to create an intense heat. Blacksmiths use a variety of tools to control the heat in the forge, including a bellows and a raker.
Hammers
Hammers are used to shape and form the metal by striking it on the anvil. There are many different types of hammers used in blacksmithing, each with a specific purpose. The most commonly used hammer is the cross peen hammer, which has a flat face on one side and a tapered point on the other. Other types of hammers include the ball peen hammer, which is used for shaping metal, and the sledgehammer, which is used for heavy forging.
- Types of Hammers used in Blacksmithing
- Best Hammer Size and Weight
Tongs
Tongs are used to hold the metal while it is being shaped and forged. They are typically made of steel and have a variety of jaws to accommodate different sizes and shapes of metal. Tongs are an essential tool for blacksmithing because they allow the blacksmith to handle the hot metal without burning their hands.
- Flat jaw tongs
- Round jaw tongs
- Square jaw tongs
- Offset jaw tongs
- V-bit tongs
- Scroll tongs
- Flat nosed pliers tongs
- Bent nosed pliers tongs
- Square nosed pliers tongs
- Half-Round jaw tongs
- Trammel tongs
- C-clamp tongs
- Bending tongs
- Twisting tongs
- Bickford tongs
- Blacksmiths’ bolt tongs
- Fishtail tongs
- Spring tongs
- Farrier tongs
- Blacksmiths’ bolt tongs with a swivel
Chisels
Chisels are used to cut and shape metal, much like a wood chisel. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including straight, curved, and angled. Blacksmiths use chisels to create decorative details and textures on the metal.
- Cold chisel
- Center punch
- Hot chisel
- Square punch chisel
- Round punch chisel
- Drift punch
- Gouge chisel
- Flatter chisel
- Slick chisel
- Parting chisel
- Rounded chisel
- Bevel-edge chisel
- Chasing chisel
- Bent chisel
- Half-round chisel
- Square-nose chisel
- Spading chisel
- Sash mortise chisel
- Paring chisel
- Panel raising chisel
Punches
Punches are used to make holes in the metal. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including round, square, and rectangular. Punches are typically used in conjunction with a hammer to create precise holes in the metal.
- Center punch
- Drift punch
- Square punch
- Round punch
- Chasing punch
- Taper punch
- Cone punch
- Drift pin punch
- Prick punch
- Aligning punch
- Tack punch
- Automatic center punch
- Nail punch
- Drive pin punch
- Roll pin punch
- Hollow punch
- Leather punch
- Rivet set punch
- Stake punch
- Hollow punch set
Files
Files are used to smooth and refine the metal surface. They come in a variety of shapes and grits, including round, flat, and half-round. Blacksmiths use files to remove any burrs or rough edges on the metal, and to create a smooth finish.
- Flat file
- Half-round file
- Round file
- Three-square file
- Square file
- Needle file
- Hand file
- Rasp file
- Mill file
- Chain saw file
- Triangular file
- Taper file
- Pillar file
- Warding file
- Equalling file
- Barrette file
- Slitting file
- Crossing file
- Knife file
- Escapement file.
Drill press
A drill press is a machine used to make holes in metal. It is typically used to create precise and uniform holes in metal.
Grinder
A grinder is a machine used to shape and sharpen metal. It is typically used to sharpen tools and remove any burrs or rough edges on metal.
- Bench grinder
- Belt grinder
- Angle grinder
- Surface grinder
- Tungsten grinder
- Die grinder
- Tool and cutter grinder
- Cylindrical grinder
- Centerless grinder
- Jig grinder
- Internal grinder
- Pedestal grinder
- Wet grinder
- Dry grinder
- Handheld grinder
- Portable grinder
- Electric grinder
- Pneumatic grinder
- Industrial grinder
- Professional grinder.
Proper care and maintenance of these tools is essential for their longevity and safe use. Blacksmiths should clean and oil their tools after each use, and store them in a dry place to prevent rust. Additionally, it is important to always use the appropriate tool for the job, and to use caution when handling hot metal.
This post is part of The Forge Hub’s Blacksmithing Complete Guide & Directory.
