Blacksmithing basics #1

the most basic tools required to blacksmith are something to heat the metal, something to hold the metal, something to hit the metal with, and something to hit the metal on. summarized in the tools themselves; Forge, Tongs, Hammer, Anvil.

The metal is heated in the forge to around 2000 degrees F (nice orange color) and then taken out of the forge with the tongs and placed on the anvil to be struck and shaped with the hammer. To begin working, an apprentice will make around 100 S Hooks to learn the basics. Tapering a rod to a point, curling the tip, smooth bends, good proportions, all the basics that are used in more complex projects. this step in getting started in blacksmithing is tedious but vital. without it you will struggle.