folded hawk question?

rocketmann · Jan 26, 2006

I'd like to try a folded hawk soon (I've already done the split & drift hawk). I'm not sure if I should try to wrap the hot metal around my drift before I forge weld it or if I should just fold and weld first and run the drift thru later. Also at what point do I add the borax??? Thanks for any help!!

Jay Mulcahy · Jan 26, 2006

Hi rocketman, I've made a few thanks to an excellent demo by J Neilson. Basically, heat up the steel and fold it over in half. Flux and clean it several times to clean the surfaces to be forge welded. After several fluxings (is that a word?) start to forge from the open end and work towards the fold. I leave some unwelded near the fold, maybe a couple of inches, and then drive the drift in. If I can do it, it cant be too hard. Ive made a half dozen or so and they all welded up fine as long as I.G. was supervising!

rocketmann · Jan 26, 2006

thanks for the info, do you have a link to that tutorial??

Jay Mulcahy · Jan 26, 2006

Sorry, but I dont. I watched him do a demo at one of the NECKA Hammerins. I guess I paid enough attention as its worked great!

J. Neilson · Jan 27, 2006

If I can be of any help with the folded hawk process, just let me know. Jay basically told you what I do (Jay is also very kind) but, if I can be of any help feel free.
J.
ps- tried to PM and e-mail but, couldn't.

rocketmann · Jan 27, 2006

Thanks for the offer, I may take you up on it at some point!!I didn't get to the project today as I spent the better part of the day forging a few ball pein hamers into hawks. I've only been at this for a few weeks now but I'm improving all the time (with a lot of info & help from this forum).

J. Neilson · Jan 27, 2006

No problem, If I can lend a hand, just let me know.

Patrice Lemée · Jan 28, 2006

Not sure if this is any help nut in case:

http://www.lanouvelle-france.com/

Under French Trade Axe and manufacturing.

Sorry if this is not related. I am a Newbie.

Pad

rocketmann · Jan 28, 2006

good link , thanks

tnmike · Jan 28, 2006

I assume you are using HC steel for the whole thing BUT IF you are using mild steel for the body of the hawk dont forget to add your high carbon steel for the bit. I use 1075 on mine and tack weld the bit to the folded sides to hold it while I forge weld it. After some borax and a couple of forging heats you can draw the edge out. You dont need a huge bit to make this work. About an inch wide piece cut to the width of your strap is enough.