A blacksmith is a metalsmith who creates objects from wrought iron or steel by forging the metal, using tools to hammer, bend, and cut. Blacksmiths produce objects such as gates, grilles, railings, light fixtures, furniture, sculpture, tools, agricultural implements, decorative and religious items, cooking utensils and weapons. The place where a blacksmith works is called variously a smithy, a forge or a blacksmith’s shop. While there are many people who work with metal such as farriers, wheelwrights, and armorers, the blacksmith had a general knowledge of how to make and repair many things, from the most complex of weapons and armor to simple things like nails or lengths of chain. The St. Louis section has Forged In Fire Season 2 Episode 1 Champion Craig Camerer, Craig took some time to demonstrate some of the skills that led him to his victory.
The members of the STL AWS pictured with Craig Camerer in his home blacksmith shop. Craig demonstrated some of the skills that led him to a forged in fire championship.
Craig Camerer demonstrating how to form the point on the knife blade using a hammer and anvil.
Craig Camerer demonstrating how to use some the machinery that he has available in his shop, Craig explained that he was able to make knifes as much as 20 times faster compared to the hammer and anvil.
Example of some of Craig Camerer’s completed knifes, you can really see the intricacy of the steel. Craig also does his own leather work.