Is Blacksmithing an Expensive Hobby?
Defining the Term Expensive
The term expensive can be subjective and varies greatly depending on one's perspective and financial circumstances. When considering whether blacksmithing is an expensive hobby, it's helpful to compare it with other activities. Blacksmithing is generally considered to be less expensive than yachting but more costly than simply watching birds from your porch. The cost of getting started with blacksmithing can be significant, but with mindful planning and resourcefulness, it is possible to embark on this rewarding hobby at a more manageable price point.
Essential Start-Up Costs for Blacksmithing
Getting started in blacksmithing involves acquiring some essential tools. These tools can vary in cost, but here is a breakdown of what you might need:
A Decent Used Anvil
The cost of a decent used anvil can range from $400 to $500. While some seasoned blacksmiths might suggest using a piece of rail track, this might not be suitable for those interested in creating larger projects. Your anvil should weigh about 5 to 10 times the weight of the hammer you typically use. The most common blacksmith hammer is around 3 lbs.
Anvil Stand
Building your own anvil stand can be a cost-effective solution, and you can gather materials for around $50. However, investing in a proper, sturdy stand is essential for safety and efficiency.
A Propane Forge
A decent propane forge can cost between $200 to $300. It's worth noting that a poorly made forge for $100 might not offer the same quality and safety as a more expensive model. A forge is a critical tool, and it should be a priority in your equipment setup.
A Decent Vise
While a standard shop vise can suffice, a post vise is often preferred for blacksmithing. Used post vises generally cost around $100 to $150.
Hammer Tongs
To start, you will need a hammer for forging and tongs to hold the workpiece. These items are crucial, and it's best not to skimp. Budget about $30 for each set, bringing the total to $60.
Shop Space / Smithy
Having a dedicated space to work in is crucial. If you already have a spot, your cost is essentially zero. If you need a space, options are plentiful, and costs can vary widely.
Steel
Starting out, most blacksmiths pick through junk at the scrap yard. However, as you progress and engage in more precise work, you will need to know the type of steel you are working with. For mild steel, you might move away from the scrap heap and purchase from a steel supplier. This ensures that you get the right type of steel for your projects, especially if you are making weapons or tools that require specific alloys. Knowing the alloy is also necessary for proper heat treatment.
Can You Purchase All the Necessary Tools?
If you prefer to buy all the necessary tools for blacksmithing, it's advisable to invest in quality items. Working with 1600-degree metal is tough on tools, and big-box stores often do not carry purpose-built tools. This is where purchasing from specialized suppliers can make all the difference.
This basic list is where many blacksmiths begin, but as your skills and projects evolve, you may find the need for more expensive tools such as presses, power hammers, grinders, welders, sand blasting boxes, and more. These additional tools can add significantly to your budget but are not necessary for getting started.
The Bottom Line
While the start-up costs for blacksmithing can be significant, they are not insurmountable. With careful planning and resourcefulness, you can get started for a relatively modest cost. After that, how expensive the hobby becomes is largely dependent on your ambitions and the projects you decide to undertake. Blacksmithing can be a rewarding and fulfilling hobby, provided you are willing to invest time and resources into it.