BASIC BLACKSMITHING An introduction to toolmaking with locally available materials DAVID HARRIES and BERNHARD HEER INTERMEDIATE TECHNOLOGY PUBLICATIONS 1993Intermediate Technology Publications Ltd, 103-105 Southampton Row, London WCIB 4HH, UK © Intermediate Technology Publications 1993 A CIP record for this book is available from the British Library ISBN 1 85339 195 6 ‘Typeset by J&L Composition Ltd, Filey, North Yorkshire Printed in Great Britain by SRP ExeterCONTENTS GLOSSARY INTRODUCTION 1, Tools and equipment A range of blacksmithing tools and equipment and their uses 2. Raw materials The uses of a range of raw materials commonly used by blacksmiths in rural areas 3. Blacksmithing techniques The basic techniques used by the blacksmith and information about forging temperatures and heat treatment 4. Making your own tools Step-by-step instructions on how to make the following tools: © Round punch > Hot chisel © Cold chisel © Hotand cold sets 2 Tongs 2 Fullers Hammers 5. Products Step-by-step instructions on the following: ° Axe-making 2 Hoe-making ° Knife-making The sickle 6. Setting up a workshop Hints for those who wish to set up their own workshop, including how to make bellows, hearths and anvils APPENDIX: Forged tools for the carpenter Step-by-step instructions for making chisels, plane irons and a carpenter's brace and bit QUESTIONNAIRE, vi vil 23 25 27 31 41 47 48 5 18 82 ol 95 101 i 127