Why Hand-forged Iron?
At Black Bear Forge we are blacksmiths and, to the extent possible, strongly favor traditional blacksmithing techniques over modern substitutes. So, what does this mean to our customers? Quality, character, design, and authenticity. Blacksmithing is defined by the process of forming hot metal, generally between the hammer and anvil. Materials, mild steel in most cases, are first heated in either a coal-fired forge or propane gas forge to 1500-2000 degrees. At this heat the iron becomes plastic and can be reworked (forged) into new and exciting shapes as elements of the project. These elements are then joined using hand-forged methods such as mortise and tenon joints, rivets and hot collars. Hot forging in the traditional blacksmith’s manner gives the iron more life and depth than other more modern methods. While a railing, for example, can be built with pieces of iron cut by a computerized laser and arc welded together, it will not have the warmth and depth of good hand-forged iron. An
