Tools of the Trade

Hammer: There are several varietes of hammers one is the cross peen which
is pictured on the right, it has the most uses, there is also carpenters never to be used unless there is no other
hammer to be found, ball peen used for mainly decorative work. There is also other offshoots and different
weights for all these hammers.

Forge: The forge is some form of container with a system of moving air
that is used to heat metal to the point where the molecules separate
which allows it to be smooshed, bent, etc.

Anvil: pictured on the right is a european style of anvil,but an anvil
can be just about any hard metal surface, from spare heavy machinery
parts, to railroad ties.

Tongs: Tongs are the means by which you
hang onto the metal you are working. The
nice thing about blacksmithing is that you
can custom make your tools to fit your job.

Vice: This is used to bend metal or act as
an extra hand.

Proper safety gear is always a good idea
goggles to protect your eyes apron, boots
always make sure your pants are over the
top of the boots it makes sure you
dont have bonfires on the inside of your
boots. gloves are optional there not
vital for protection and your
hands eventually become resistent to burns,
and you dont lose tactile feeling