My old way of making tongs was a total waste of good steel

For the first couple years, I'd just grab a piece of 1/2 inch square stock, heat it, and start hammering out the reins and jaws all in one go. I'd always end up with a weak spot at the pivot or jaws that were too thin, and I'd burn through a foot of steel for every pair that actually worked. About a year ago, I saw a guy at the Ohio Valley Blacksmiths meetup do it differently. He started with two separate pieces, drew out the reins first, then forge-welded the jaw stock on after. It felt like cheating at first, but man, the control is so much better. Now I use that method every time, and my last five pairs have been solid. Has anyone else completely changed up a basic process like that and been shocked at how much better it works?

2 comments

2 Comments

finleyw993d ago

Is it really that big of a deal? It's just a different way to make a tool, not a life changing secret. You found what works for you, that's cool.

emmaj333d ago

It's not just about the tool, it's about the mindset shift. @finleyw99, that different way can unlock a whole new approach to problem solving. That's where the real value hides.