Practical Blacksmithing and Metalworking

This fine reference is divided into two sections. In the Section 1, Mr. Blandford begins with the basics, providing us with information on iron and steel, forges and anvils, the tools of a blacksmith. There is thorough narrative on basic techniques, such as cutting, bending, drawing out, upsetting, twisting, welding, heat treatment, and case hardening, followed by a chapter on advanced processes: making chain, making nails, rivets, and welds. There is much emphasis on making tools, and this is a very importatn skill. All the primary tools are covered: hammers, tongs, punches, spikes, knives, sets, fullers, swages and much more. Section 2 covers much general information regarding metals, measurement, and other common metal-crafting procedures. This book is jam-packed with all the knowledge you need, and well-illustrated with line-drawings and black & white photos. Its truly among the best bargains for your metal-shop needs.

But still not as good as Sims "Backyard Blacksmith" A few more pictures would have made this book a five star.

Mr. Blanford Writes of experience. He makes you feel welcome in the world of the blacksmith. Is on my must read book list for my students.

As a beginner blacksmith with a professional engineering background I bought previously Alexander G Weygers: "The Complete Modern Blacksmith" largely because it had many "excellent" reviews. However, Blandford wins on most points. I have found Blandford very helpful on specific details, on leading me through principles and methods, with much clearer illustations properly referenced in the text, and with a wider scope of nedded information. In contrast Blandford has much better information on welding, and detail on forges and on aprons and is far better indexed. I have learned a lot from both books, but if I had to choose one it would be Blandford.

Percy Blandford writes on a lot of shop craft topics and has clearly thought about them a lot. He writes well. This is a general introduction to metalwork primarily from a smithing perspective...that is, carbon steel work. It touches on other areas but really isn't suitable to the beginning welder, sheetmetal worker, or tool and die hobbiest. It would be best for the person who wants to make historic replica items from a forge who one who wishes to supplement historical replica woodworking with some basic metal work in brass or iron/steel.