any type of method you look at it, blacksmithing is a punishing trade. heavy tools, a red-hot forge, flying sparks, as well as searing metal all precise a toll on the smith’s body unless precautions are taken. After appropriate security devices as well as great training, a blacksmith may want to invest is power hammer to replace at least a few of the heavy hammer work needed to shape hot metal.

Power hammers aren’t cheap, though, which is why [70kirkster] developed one from an old engine block. You’ve got to admire the junkyard feel of this thing; it’s almost nothing however scrap. The engine block is a straight-6 from an old Ford pickup stripped of whatever however the crankshaft as well as one piston. An electric motor spins the crankshaft as well as moves the hammer against the anvil with linking rods as well as a trip arm fashioned from a trailer leaf spring. whatever looks super solid as well as the hammer hits hard; the videos below tell the tale of the develop as well as show the hammer in action. Not poor for $100 out-of-pocket.

Blacksmithing is one of those dark arts that truly deserves to have more adherents. The barriers to entry can be high, however the benefits are great. looking to get started on the cheap? then inspect out [Bil Herd]’s guide to hacking together a backyard smithy.