Visit to Magnus at Wimpole Hall 22-03-14

Unfortunately Magnus has not been too well recently, but this did create the opportunity for me to go up to Wimpole for some more one to one tuition. I was given a large piece of bus spring at my blacksmithing class recently. This is no EN45, it behaves like an alloy steel with all sorts in it, and is also 4”x2”in section in the middle then only really 1/1/8” at the ends. When cut it has a mirror finish. I had already formed a slim handle socket and a straight blade. I wanted something more traditional with a beard and bigger socket.

This forge at Wimpole was built in 1790. Loaded with charcoal it was so much easier to use than coke or coal.

 

Someone ordered coal by mistake at my blacksmithing class in Forest Gate Once, now that proved interesting – red faces and lots of fumes. 

Back to charcoal - the fire (once lit) only requires intermittent pumps from the giant bellows to keep it going. Less chance of overheating, less carbon loss, less noise but expensive on bought charcoal. However small charcoal is even better and may be bought from a maker for very little.

My latest axe head, I want to make beards!

Sussex Group meeting at Mary’s Barn 23-03-14

The first meet of the season was very well attended. They stopped half way through and held a Ball planning meeting – they take things very seriously in Sussex. Everybody you see is volunteering during the weekend! They still require many more however – contact Mike Gordon.  Thanks for the venue Mary.