Here are some great beginner tools to get you started on your journey to becoming a master blacksmith.
I think they’re a good balance between quality and affordability.
Hammer
I’d recommend this Estwing hammer for starting out. It’s a cross pein hammer that weighs 2.5 lbs (40 ounces.)
It’s got a really nice grip. The handle is made of fiberglass, but it also feels quite durable. You can’t really go wrong for the price.
Tongs
Caliburn wolf jaw tongs are good for a beginner.
They’re 16 inches long and weigh about a pound and a half. They can hold all different sizes and shapes of metal pretty well.
Forges
At the time of writing this, I’m still experimenting with homemade/backyard forges and haven’t actually purchased a proper forge for myself yet.
But from all the research I’ve done, I think I’ll probably end up settling on this Hell’s Forge propane forge. I think a gas forge is the way to go, and I don’t really want to mess around with coal.
The interior of this forge measures 19 x 6.75 x 3.5″ so it’s great for heating up small pieces of metal and tools for a beginner blacksmith. Although you won’t be able to fit large pieces or use it to make a wrought iron fence or anything.
It’s easy to set up and use, and it gets up to temperature in only about 10 minutes.
Soapstone
You’ll want some soapstone to easily mark your work as you’re measuring it.
It’s pretty generic and I’m not sure that one brand is really better than another. Pretty sure these ones are meant to be refills for some kind of holder, but they work just fine on their own. Use it like you would a piece of chalk.
Anvils
At this time I don’t really have a great anvil to recommend. For now I’d suggest looking locally for a used anvil.
I’m working to find an online retailer that might be willing to offer a discount to BlacksmithU.com readers at the moment, so be sure to check back!
More Coming Soon
I’ll be adding more tools and gear to this list as I have a chance to try them myself.
