When all you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail. But what if you don’t have a hammer?
Then all your problems look different – they all require unique solutions, and who has time for that? You need to make a hammer so you can simplify your life!
In this class we will make a 2.5 pound (1.1kg) blacksmithing hammer using 4045 medium-carbon steel. Along the way, you’ll learn some metallurgy, a little history, and a lot of procedural information on how to use some Red Tools.
On the first day, we will forge out the head of the hammer and learn how to use Nova Labs’ 16-ton pneumatic press to punch a hole through the stock. We will shape, drift, and heat-treat the head of the hammer.
On the second day, we will learn how to grind and polish our hammer-heads, which sounds dirty. And it is; you shouldn’t wear nice clothes. But it’s dirty in a wholesome way. We’ll be using Nova Labs’ 2x72 Inch Belt Grinders and a die grinder to finish shaping our hammer.
Students will be expected to come in on their own time during the week to shape their hammer on the grinder, and mount the head on a (provided) handle.
Schedule:
June 1, Noon to 5:00:
Introduction to blacksmithing hammer styles
Introduction to the 16-ton Pneumatic press
Forging, punching & drifting the Hammer
Heat treating
Cleanup
June 2, Noon to 3:00:
Introduction to the 2x72 Inch Grinder
Shaping the hammer head demonstration
Polishing the face demonstration
Handle mounting demonstration
Cleanup!
INSTRUCTOR: Patrick Marstall
SIGN-OFF: 16-ton pneumatic press and 2x72 inch grinder. (Must attend the entirety of both days.)
PREREQUISITES: You MUST have taken the Blacksmithing 101 safety sign-off class to take this project/sign-off class!
Some experience beyond the sign-off class is recommended. It is highly recommended that you have attended at least a few of the Blacksmithing Practice Sessions (aka Open Office Hours) and/or that you are comfortable with the basic blacksmithing tools.
Age 16 and over. Any person aged 16 or 17 must have a parent remain on the premises in case of emergency.
SAFETY:
- Must wear cotton or wool clothing – no synthetic materials.
- Shoes must be made from leather or canvas; plastic-topped sneakers will not be allowed
- Eye protection (goggles) are provided, but you may bring your own for the best fit.
- Failure to wear appropriate clothing may result in being turned away from the class without a refund.
