Steel is a forgiving material, that lets the smith develop as knowledge is gradually built up. But it’s also important to understand the mistakes one has made, in order to be able to go back and try it again.
The process as it is depicted in Swedish Blacksmithing will help you to do this! Swedish Blacksmithing also gives examples of true peak technology, like axe making and the latest in damascus, or pattern welding!
The book doesn’t hedge when it comes to the problems that must be solved in the forge: tools, the use of thehearth and anvil, the characteristics of different kinds of iron and steel, the temperature, hardening. It gives directions for all the conceivable situations.
Some say that the book is also entertaining and most maintain that Swedish Blacksmithing is the best objective description of how to forge.
