ABS Introduction to Bladesmithing

Service Description

Oct 13th - 17th w/ Josh Fisher, MS Oct 20th -24th w/Tim Potier, MS 10-Day (2 Week) class. Certified by the American Bladesmith Society (ABS) and taught by ABS Master Smiths, this two-week course is designed for individuals of all experience levels interested in learning how to make high quality forged blades. The class covers topics including material selection, blade function, and blade design. Forge metal to shape hands-on in the shop, and learn normalizing, heat treating, grinding, and tempering. These semi-finished blades will then be tested for their cutting ability, edge retention, hardness, and flexibility. While handles and guards are not part of this course they may be discussed. Students who successfully complete this course should be prepared to venture into a handles and guards course next. For ABS Apprentice members, successful completion of this course will reduce the required 3 year waiting period to a 2 year wait for ABS Journeyman Smith judging.