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Blacksmith tools are essential for professionals in creating and repairing various iron or steel-based products, ranging from gates to cooking supplies. Whether you are considering starting a blacksmith business or simply looking for new suppliers, this guide will provide you with the information you need.
The Blacksmithing Industry in 2022
Although blacksmithing may seem like an outdated practice, there is still a demand for custom metal items such as fencing, light fixtures, and home decor. The availability of automation in producing these items at scale has resulted in blacksmiths catering to customers who are willing to pay a higher price for handcrafted products. Furthermore, the decrease in the number of people entering the field has allowed those who remain to charge higher prices for their services.
What Supplies Do You Need for Your Blacksmith Business?
While the exact list may vary, there are several supplies that blacksmiths will require to create the most in-demand products. Here is a general consensus to help you get started:
1. Forge
2. Anvil
3. Hammers
4. Vise
5. Tongs
6. Chisels
7. Metals
8. Propane
9. Coal
10. Charcoal
Top Places to Find Blacksmithing Supplies for Your Business
Fortunately, there are numerous convenient options for finding blacksmithing supplies. Here are some reliable sources, both online and in stores:
1. Amazon
2. Etsy
3. Blacksmiths Depot
4. Blacksmith Supply
5. Centaur Forge
6. Pieh Tool Company
7. PERUN
8. Blacksmith Tools Supply
9. Walmart
10. eBay
11. Facebook Marketplace
12. Tractor Supply Co.
What Steel Do Blacksmiths Use?
Steel is a versatile material, and understanding its variations is crucial for blacksmiths. The choice of steel used will largely depend on the project’s requirements. Here are some commonly used types of steel in blacksmithing:
1. Low Carbon Steel (Mild Steel)
2. Medium Carbon Steel
3. High Carbon Steel
4. Alloy Steels
5. Stainless Steel
6. Tool Steels
Each type of steel possesses unique properties that will influence the forging process, required heat treatment, and the final product’s performance. Therefore, it is important for blacksmiths to understand these properties and select the appropriate steel for their specific projects.
Blacksmith Tools for Small Business
For those starting a blacksmith business, here are some specific tools that may be relevant to your journey:
1. Anvil
2. Forge
3. Hammer
4. Tongs
5. Chisels
6. Fullers
7. Swage Block
8. Hardy Tools
9. Flatter
10. Pritchel
11. Drift
12. Quenching Tank
13. Slack Tub
These tools are essential for shaping and manipulating hot metal, cutting and carving designs, and creating specific shapes and holes.
In conclusion, blacksmithing continues to have a market for custom metal items, and there are various accessible sources for supplies. By understanding the different types of steel and using the right tools, blacksmiths can create high-quality and innovative products for their customers.
