Thread: Forging Competition

The last couple of shows have been a bit more interesting. For what it's worth, Murray Carter is going to be on Aug 10th - we will see how a "17th generation Japanese blade smith" shows up. I liked the show a oouple of weeks back with the two Japanese trained guys.

Originally Posted by Chevhead

I too like the show.
I find it interesting.
Of course I have ZERO idea how to forge anything.

It's literally like working with play-doh. You hit something, and it squashes in the other directions. Only instead of your hands you use a hammer because your hands are not made for hitting something that is 900 degrees Celsius.

Originally Posted by Bruno

It's literally like working with play-doh. You hit something, and it squashes in the other directions. Only instead of your hands you use a hammer because your hands are not made for hitting something that is 900 degrees Celsius.

And the play-doe is kind of stiff. Imagine needing to swing a heavy hammer at play-doe.

Originally Posted by Bruno

It's literally like working with play-doh. You hit something, and it squashes in the other directions. Only instead of your hands you use a hammer because your hands are not made for hitting something that is 900 degrees Celsius.

That would be the hardest play-doh I've ever encountered. True, hands are not made for 900°C, but it takes a good amount of energy to reshape a piece of hot steel/iron.

I enjoyed my time over a forge and anvil. I wish I could still do it. Unfortunately for me, my wrists and thumbs are shot. I can't swing a hammer worth a damn anymore.

Those of you that do swing the hammers on on hot steel, HAMMER ON and enjoy! It is truly satisfying to make a piece of steel conform to your wishes with the help of your hands.

I find that it helps to use a short handle on the hammer, and keeping the steel hot enough. Keep it nice and yellow when you hit hard, and it won't bounce back.

Originally Posted by Bruno

I find that it helps to use a short handle on the hammer, and keeping the steel hot enough. Keep it nice and yellow when you hit hard, and it won't bounce back.

I agree.

Funny thing, the arthritis in my wrists is what made start using a straight rather than a razor on a stick. The difference in the way a straight is held versus a safety razor is much less painful for me.

My favorite hammer was a 2lb made in England with a tiger striped maple handle about 10" long. It's still on my bench but it doesn't get to work anymore.

Originally Posted by Wullie

I agree.

Funny thing, the arthritis in my wrists is what made start using a straight rather than a razor on a stick. The difference in the way a straight is held versus a safety razor is much less painful for me.

My favorite hammer was a 2lb made in England with a tiger striped maple handle about 10" long. It's still on my bench but it doesn't get to work anymore.

Arthiritis is bad stuff for sure just pray you never get get parkinsons,only thing you can shave with is an electric razor