Forge welding

Forge welding was until the advent of oxy-acetylene welding and later on, arc, MIG and TIG welding, the only way to join two pieces of iron or steel without mechanical means.

In knifemaking forge welding is used in the making of Damascus steel.

To forge weld two pieces of iron or steel, the steel must be prepared for the weld and both must reach welding heat at the same time.
The heat source for making a forge weld can be a charcoal, coal, coke or gas fired forge.

If there is a need for further discussion on the blacksmith's techniques of forge welding, please contact me and I will expand on this subject.