In this one day course we will forge a Tomahawk Axe. Ideal for use as a small camp hatchet or throwing at a target, this axe will be a prized possession for years to come.
Starting from a 0.5kg high carbon steel ball-pein hammer head, you will drift the eye to enlarge it slightly, and then will begin forging out the tomahawk. Heating the material in our forge to just under 1000 degrees, we will have it glowing bright orange and will begin to shape the axe blade, using a combination of hammer & anvil, and hydraulic press.
Once forged and cooled, you will refine the shape on belt grinders, before going through a robust heat treatment process to ensure a hard edge.
Following this, you will shape and fit a handle, and will finish by sharpening to a keen edge.
No prior experience is necessary and the class will guide you through:
- Forge safety
- Using a gas forge
- Forging the axe head to shape
- Profiling the axe head
- Heat treating (incl. normalising, hardening & tempering)
- Axe finishing, grinding and sanding
- Selection of a suitable handle and fitting to the axe
- Handle shaping, hafting, and finishing
- Blade sharpening and testing
At the end of the course you will go home with a fully finished and sharp tomahawk axe that you have made yourself, suitable for a lifetime of use.
Should this course be a gift, you have the option of selecting flexible dates, and having a designed gift voucher sent to pass to the selected recipient. The recipient can then book on any available slot by contacting us. Gift vouchers are valid for nine months from date of purchase.
Agenda
- Introduction to forging safely, use of gas forge & PPE
- Drifting the eye
- Forging to rough shape
- Profiling the axe head
- Heat Treating (inc/ normalising, hardening, and tempering)
- Handle selection, shaping & fitting
- Blade sharpening & testing
Timings / Admin
- Each day will begin at 1000, and run until approximately 1600-1700.
- Safety equipment is provided, but please ensure that you wear non-flammable clothing and sturdy shoes (preferably leather).
- Tea / Coffee / Biscuits will be provided. There are many local shops/cafes nearby for lunch.
- Please note, due to space and safety issues, spectators are not permitted on these courses.