scrap RR metal

[*JC*]

First off i have heard that is illegal to pick up metal of the ROCK MOUNTS of RR lines. So let me say that is not were i got this metal. I picked it up at my work that happens to have its own set of tracks they use..........That said I have a box of scrap metal that ranges from spikes to 1" round bar about 8" long and a .5" thick round bar with a hooked end.......i plan to use this as my tool making ( tongs maybe even a small hammer) this is how i plan to practice all the basics..............but what else could i do to practice or should i say make to cut a rough edge in my skills be for i go and dive right in and get in over my head.

 

[setlab]

I'm not sure I understand all that your asking, but for making a hammer the stuff you find by the tracks isn't going to be great. Lots of guys like RR spike knives, those would be good practice that you can give to your freinds just don't expect it to hold much of an edge. When I was new to smithing I made lots of little s-hooks with the points gradually tapering to small scrolls and stuff to use around the camp fire. If your in need of metal to use just stop by your local scrap yard and they will sell you metal for pennys on the pound. As far as finding metal to use on the RR as long as your not prying spikes up or ripping siganal wire out of the ground no one is going to pick up the radio and call someone in for walking beside the track, I sure wouldn't. There is tons of little pieces of scrap every where out there that is just going to sit there for decades untill it turns into rust.