Choosing a set of tongs and files

[PDE]

I was thinking that as I would like to get into knife making, that i would need a pair of tongs as well as a set of files, any brands i should look at? stay away from? Also, if anyone thinks about other specialty items i might need, please feel free to add them.

 

[ATX]

If you are going to forge blades and need the basics for 1/4 inch steel, i would get a small smooth mouth tong like the Tom Tong Duck Bill but with the plain smooth mouth, and the 1/4 inch Z box, which is offset and will hold the blade very well. I like the Tom Tongs but you could get any brand. These two will give you a small pair for picking up and holding thin material and the offset will securely hold the 1/4 inch stock or the finished blade. This will get you started.

 

[PDE]

Thanks so much, those look like some pretty decent and useful tongs.

 

[A C Richards]

One set will not be enough but the ones mentioned will serve you well. once you get started you will start collecting different sizes and styles. When you need a new one either buy or make it. Files are the same way. You will probably end up with a bucket full in short order. Nicholsons are good as are Grobet and Simmonds. I have used them all and like the Simmonds the best. A good mill bastard for rough work and a second cut for rough finish. From there go to paper backed with either hardwood or brass/copper.

 

[Russ Andrews]

What AC said....about tongs and files...

Sometimes I've found Nicholson files.....50-75 cents each at salvage freight
places....

New tongs can run $25-$60. each. Used can sometimes be found at flea markets
for a fraction of that.

 

[PDE]

That is better than the thirty bucks i was seeing for a new Nicholson.

 

[Sam Salvati]

Tom tongs are a rip off design of Off Center tongs, designed and produced by Grant Sarver. I HIGHLY recommend Off Center tongs, they can be bought from

blacksmithsdepot.com

 

[PDE]

Thanks for the advice, Sam.

 

[PDE]

You have any advice on a what particular type-pair I should get? (you know the one that i would use most frequently and i could do the most with)

 

[Russ Andrews]

Box and flat tongs are the ones I use most.....a few different sizes of each.
If you'll be forging rounds.....rivet tongs, appropriate to the stock size.