A blacksmith is a metalsmith who creates objects from wrought iron or steel by forging the metal, using tools to hammer, bend, and cut.
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Tools of the Trade
Tongs
Flatter
Drifts
Cross Pein Hammer
Anvil
Forge
What Blacksmiths Love About Their Trade
It's a timeless craft.
Pride in a job well done.
Getting to work with hands.
Characteristics
Ancient Craft
Not Customer Facing
Work Indoors
Variety of Tools
Physically Challenging
Art and a Science
Outlook
Optionality Potential
Medium
There are specializations within the trade.
Entrepreneurship Potential
High
Fairly low startup but does require a shop.
Demand Forecast
Medium
You must be good at marketing yourself.
Reviews
(42)
Troy G.
It's very rewarding to be able to shape metal to what you have in your head with your hands and some simple tools. It's a cool trade, and I'm constantly getting better. You've definitely got to be able to market your services.
Dustin R.
The best part about this trade is that ultimately you are an artist and your art lives forever in what you create with the iron. It hasn't made me rich, but it has made me a very happy and fulfilled man and let me work close to my family.
Pat K.
I like to be alone with my work, and make my vision a reality. Blacksmithing gives both of those things to me. It can take some time to find steady work but you will figure it out if you keep at it.
$53,200
/ year *
Estimated Salary
Let schools, unions and employers start competing for you
Compare this to a teacher who only makes $40,000/yr in Fairbanks, Alaska