tomahawk/axe forging questions

[ScottRoush]

A couple of things...

What is the easiest way to upset the end of a rr spike for forging the blade? I'm having problems with whole spike wanting to bend over...

Also... what method works best for forging down the 'ears' on the eye (like the Gransfors)??

Thanks!

 

[lamepro]

i am interested in this also had the same problems!

 

[ScottRoush]

i was just looking at somebodie's tutorial and they show upsetting by just holding the spike close to the end and hammering. i was placing the spike end down on the anvil and hitting the head....

 

[savageknives]

watch steves tutorials on youtube. he uses what he calls the "bump and draw" method. search coal creek forge and you should find it.

 

[Kentucky]

You have to upset the end of the rr spike at least an inch to make a decent blade. Heat just an inch or so of the tip and hammer straight down on it. Before you slit and drift it. RR spikes can be a pain to get straight and true. Its easier to upset the end before you slit for the eye..
The ears on an axe are made by forging down the sides when you have the drift thru the eye. Just heat the work piece, insert drift and the drift acts like an internal anvil. forge to shape..
PS: If your gonna forge weld a HC bit into the rr spike this is also the time to do it. Upset it, then slit it, then insert and weld bit..