Types of Metal to Use for Blacksmithing: A Beginner's Guide

When you're starting out as a blacksmith, understanding the different types of metals you’ll work with is essential. Each type has its own unique characteristics, from the temperature required to shape them to how they respond to heat. This guide will help you learn the basics of six common metals: iron, steel, copper, bronze, aluminum, and titanium.

When discussing temperatures below, they are generally within the typical forging temperature ranges for each metal. However, it’s important to clarify that specific forging temperatures can vary based on the metal alloy, intended use, and desired result, but these temperatures are generally accurate for basic blacksmithing purposes.

1. Iron

Iron is one of the oldest metals used in blacksmithing, and there are two main types: cast iron and wrought iron.

Cast Iron: This type of iron has a very high carbon content, making it brittle and unsuitable for forging. It is primarily used for casting into molds and is not malleable at high

temperatures. Cast iron is often found in items like cookware and machinery parts but

cannot be forged in the traditional blacksmithing process.

Wrought Iron: In contrast, wrought iron has almost no carbon, making it highly malleable and

perfect for forging. It has been nearly obsolete since the 1940s and is no longer produced in

modern times. As a result, wrought iron is usually only found in scrap yards or private

collections. It is a recycled metal, and some pieces may require further refining to remove

impurities before they can be worked with.

Wrought iron was widely used in blacksmithing for centuries, and even though it is difficult to find today, its use in historical structures and tools makes it highly valuable to those looking to recreate old-world craftsmanship.

Temperature: 2,200°F (1,200°C) to 2,500°F (1,370°C)

Heat reaction: Wrought iron is extremely malleable when heated, allowing blacksmiths to easily shape and work it. However, because it’s often found in a more impure state, it may need to be refined before use.

2. Steel

Steel is an alloy of iron and carbon and is one of the most versatile materials in blacksmithing. Its characteristics can vary greatly depending on the carbon content, making it adaptable for a variety of projects.

Temperature: 2,100°F (1,150°C) to 2,400°F (1,315°C) (Steel is forged at a range from the lower temperature for mild steels to higher temperatures for high-carbon steels or alloy steels.)

Heat reaction: Steel is more durable than iron and retains its strength when heated. However, it requires careful temperature control to avoid overheating, which can cause it to burn.

3. Copper

Copper is a softer metal that is easily shaped when heated. It’s often used for decorative pieces or tools that require excellent conductivity, such as cookware. Copper melts at a much lower temperature than iron or steel, around 1,984°F (1,085°C), which makes it easier to work with but also requires more care not to overheat.

Temperature: 1,700°F (925°C) to 2,000°F (1,090°C)

Heat reaction: Copper is highly malleable when heated and can be shaped easily. However, it has a tendency to oxidize quickly, so it needs to be worked in a well-ventilated area to avoid the buildup of harmful fumes.

4. Bronze

Bronze, an alloy of copper and tin, is another metal commonly used in blacksmithing, especially for casting. It has a much higher strength than pure copper and melts at a slightly higher temperature, around 1,980°F (1,082°C). Bronze is often used for intricate designs and tools that require both durability and aesthetics.

Temperature: 1,800°F (980°C) to 2,100°F (1,150°C)

Heat reaction: Bronze is highly resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for outdoor and marine applications. When forged, it has a great deal of resistance to wear and fatigue, making it durable over time.

5. Aluminum

Aluminum is a lightweight and easy-to-forge metal that is commonly used in decorative projects and tools that don’t require a lot of strength. It has a lower melting point, around 1,221°F (660°C), which makes it easier to work with compared to the metals mentioned above. However, it is also more prone to deformation when heated.

Temperature: 1,200°F (650°C) to 1,300°F (700°C)

Heat reaction: Aluminum is very malleable when heated but can be difficult to control due to its low melting point. Overheating can cause it to become too soft or even burn, so precise temperature control is critical.

6. Titanium

Titanium is a strong, lightweight metal that is highly resistant to corrosion. It’s often used in aerospace and medical applications due to its strength-to-weight ratio. Titanium has a higher forging temperature than many other metals and it also requires specialized tools and techniques for working with it.

Temperature: 2,000°F (1,093°C) to 2,500°F (1,370°C)

Heat reaction: Titanium is challenging to work with due to its high melting point and difficulty in shaping it with traditional blacksmithing tools. It requires careful temperature control to avoid warping or burning, but it is an incredibly strong metal once forged properly.

Finding Steel for Your Blacksmithing Projects

As a beginner blacksmith, one of the most important aspects of your craft is sourcing the right materials. Steel is one of the most common metals used in blacksmithing, but it can vary greatly in price and quality depending on where you get it from.

New Steel: You can purchase new steel at any metal supply yard, but this can be quite expensive, especially when you're just starting out and experimenting. It’s a great option for those looking for consistency, but it's not the most cost-effective choice for beginners.

Scrap Yard Steel: A more affordable and practical solution for a new blacksmith is to visit a scrap yard. Steel from scrap yards often comes from various sources, so you’ll need to evaluate it carefully for quality. The best metal for making tools, especially those that need to hold an edge, is high-carbon steel.

      Leaf or Coil Springs: These are excellent sources of high-carbon steel, often found in    

      older model automobiles. Many of the newer cars use alloys that are not ideal for  

      forging, so it's best to look for springs from older vehicles.

      Steel for Knives: When making knives, you’ll want to use high-carbon steel for the best  

      performance. In addition to leaf and coil springs, another great source of high-carbon

      steel is old horse rasps, which are perfect for forging knives.

      Railroad Spikes & Horseshoes: Some blacksmiths enjoy using railroad spikes and

      horseshoes for decorative pieces, such as letter openers or rustic hooks. However,

      these metals are not ideal for making functional tools or knives, as their carbon content

      is too low to provide the necessary hardness and edge retention.

In a future YouTube video on my channel https://www.youtube.com/@GrimmetForge, I'll show you how to test the carbon content of your metal using a grinder. This will help you determine whether the material you have will be suitable for your projects.

Conclusion

Understanding the different metals used in blacksmithing is essential for any beginner. Each metal has its own unique characteristics, including the temperature required for forging and how it reacts to heat. Whether you're working with iron, steel, copper, bronze, aluminum, or titanium, each material offers distinct possibilities for your projects.

When it comes to sourcing steel, beginners have a few options. While new steel from a metal supply yard is reliable, it can be quite expensive. A more affordable option is to visit a scrap yard, where you'll find high-carbon steel ideal for tools, including leaf or coil springs from older automobiles. For knife making, old horse rasps are another excellent source of high-carbon steel. Though railroad spikes and horseshoes are popular for decorative work, they’re not suitable for functional knives due to their low carbon content.

By learning about these metals and how to source them effectively, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of blacksmithing without breaking the bank. Happy forging!