Going to School

A

AKHammonds

Joined
Mar 22, 2007
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I am going to the Intro to Bladesmithing school in Washington Arkansas in a few week.
Any advise on what to take, or just advise in general?
Thanks
Allen
 
Hello Allen. As Stacy said take an open mind for one. You might want to bring an blacksmiths or welders apron and definitely some gloves. If you have a hammer you like take it. They do have some hammers there but if you have one in particular that works for you. Aspirin or some type of pain reliever is a good thing. Those first few days you will discover muscles you did not know you had. If you are taking the September class you will have two really good instructors in Jim Walker and Ron Newton. Both are first class and excellent teachers as well as real nice people. Overall just enjoy yourself and have fun, you will be amazed at what you learn.

Brion Tomberlin
Anvil Top Custom Knives
ABS JS
 
I took my own eye and ear protection (I believe that is provided) as well as a respirator just in case I needed it. Also heavy leather gloves, a leather apron, two hammers (both of which I left there), a gallon water cooler and a note book and pen. Don't wear anything white or made of nylon or other synthetic type material. White will turn black and nylon melts to skin. Steel toed boots saved me from a foot injury when someone was carelessly moving an anvil. Hope it helps some. -Matt-
 
Allen, where will you be staying?? The bunkhouse is only 16 bucks a night and you can walk to the classroom in about 5 minutes... I had a great time when I was there...It is going to be real real real hot with all of the forges going so bring some gatorade.. :thumbup:
 
I have reservations at the Best Western in Hope. I was not sure if there would be places to eat and stuff in Washington, and I am not planning on renting a car. I was told I could catch a ride to class each morning.
 
i have never taken a bladsmithing class but i did take 2 yrs of welding so expect some of the gear will be similar.

steel-toe boots
blue jeans, preferably no fryed ends on the bottom and no holes
good leather gloves, i like welding gloves, insulated
a nice set of pliers/channel locks

going w/ eye and ear protection you might want some form of tinted glasses, like brazing goggels, red hot meatl can be rough on the eyes.

a few (3-5) bandannas to keep the sweat out of your eyes.

this is all i can think of. i envy you, i dont think we have any bladesmithing classes around here.

above all have fun.
 
The best western is ok, there is a super walmart across the street and several restaurants in walking distance. The thing about catching a ride is finding out who is staying there and contacting them in time...Scotty Hayes should mail you a list of your classmates names and phone numbers..Try to contact them before you get in a bind....You would have a 10-15 mile walk if you don't get a ride..Have fun....BTW Texas knife makes supply is in houston, and is only 4-5 hours away....It makes for a good road trip over the weekend...leave early they close at noon on saturday.....:cool:
 
Louis-
Thanks the tip, I talked to Scott already and he said I could ride with the instructor who were staying at the Best Western (I am not sure he asked them first?:confused:?). But I am looking to enjoy the class very much.
Thanks
Allen :p
 
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