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a '''blacksmith''' is a person who works metal.  Working from [[ingots]] or bar stock he heats and forges (shapes) the metal to the required form using hammers and an anvil. A variety of other tools are used to punch holes , round edges or cut shapes. The metal is then quenched to provide the required degree of hardness and remove stresses. By heating and hammering two pieces of metal could be joined by welding.

A '''blacksmith''' is a person who shapes metal into a variety of objects.  The blacksmith heats and forges metal to the required form using hammers and an anvil. A variety of other tools are used to punch holes, round edges or cut shapes. The metal is then dipped into water — referred to as "quenching" — to provide the required degree of hardness and remove stress.

The metal most commonly used was iron. Some examples of items made are horseshoes, fences and gates, andirons, plow blades, various farm implements , armor, swords, and kitchen utensils.  

The metal most commonly used is [[iron]]. Some examples of items made are horseshoes, fences and gates, andirons, plow blades, various farm implements, armor, swords, and kitchen utensils.  

==References==

==External Links==

* http://www.history.org/almanack/life/trades/tradebla.cfm

* [http://www.history.org/almanack/life/trades/tradebla.cfm Colonial Williamsburg; "Blacksmith"]

* http://www.blksmth.com/

* [http://www.blksmth.com/ Shady Grove Blacksmith Shop]

[[category:professions]]

[[category:professions]]