forging hammer

[Godspeed]

What size/style forging hammer would be best for a beginner?
I use a 2.5lb cross pein, but i don't feel like i can control it well enough, and
If I use my 12oz. sheet metal hammer It takes alot longer and makes alot of
annoying dents in my blades. Any advice would be appreciated.
thanks
-Adam

 

[Brad Lilly]

For what its worth I use a 2.5lb cross peen and a 22oz ball peen to forge with

 

[Wayne Coe]

Adam, come back over and take a lesson. I'll be waiting for your call.

I teach the European style of anvil stance and what is commonly refered to as the Hofi style of hammering. My hammer control improved greatly once I learned this.

 

[Godspeed]

Ha! So Wayne, you're saying it's not the hammer's fault?
i'll give you a shout.

 

[Doug Lester]

A lot of annoying dents sounds like you might be hitting too hard. Also the face of your hammer could be the culpret if there any sharp edges. Also, check your anvil height. It should be the same height as the knuckles of your hand as you stand straight beside it. You might also want to go visit Wayne and take your hammers with you.

Doug