The Forged Wrapped Axe
with
Ben Coffin
Class runs: October 13-15
Tuition: $500
Material Fee: $60
Skill level: Seasoned beginner and up, familiar with forge welding
Heat Source: Gas or Coal Forges
In this three day workshop we will be forging a forge welded wrapped axe using a mixture of old techniques and new. The axe will have a forge welded pole and edge steel. This technique is useful in studying traditional axe making as well as making axes will little to no heavy equipment. The students will learn basic axe geometry and grinding along with making their own handle, shaping and fitting the handle to the head.
Ben coffin has been blacksmithing for 14 years and blade smithing for 6. He started off taking a few classes and then went on to work for Brant and Cochran during their start up until 2019. Ever since he’s balanced shipbuilding full time whilst taking on a mixture of commissions and small retail work for his knives and custom blacksmithing commissions. Among other things, Ben makes hunting and kitchen knives, wood working tools, kitchen utensils, axes, Damascus items, and most basic blacksmithing items.