swage block use

That's a nice web page! I missed that when I searched. Still, it doesn't state how cautious you have to be with these blocks. Can you take a 4 pound or heavier hammer and strike pretty hard for forming?
I have trouble thinking of cast material being used in this manner.
 
You should be able to beat the crap out of it without worrying about damaging it. They are wonderful tools for a blacksmith. You can make round stuff square and square stuff round. You can make spoons, bowls, and other such stuff. The half round slots on the outside edges are really handy for welding up cable really tight with minimal inclusions.


Todd
 
AS long as your steel is red hot when you hammer on it you won't harm the swage block.
they can take it.
 
I have to say, it is possible to get two modern production swage blocks, and how PERFECT they would be as a set of dies on a hydraulic press. All the outer shapes would be great for forging billets, squaring and rounding and stuff.
 
Sam, Laurel Machine and Foundry in Laurel,MS used to make a couple of different styles and sizes of swage blocks for a good price. They also used to make a line of blacksmith's anvils (pretty pricey, though), and various blacksmithing tools. I say used to because I haven't been in contact with them for several years, but they probably still make all the stuff. The CEO, Gene Mulloy, was (and probably still is) a very active member af the Mississippi Forge Council, the ABANA group in Mississippi. Their website doesn't show any of their blacksmithing tools, but they have never advertized it much. Anyway, their number is (601)428-0541 if you're interested.

Todd
 
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