Metalworking as explained by the old masters! Originally and recently published and annotated in four volumes The Complete Practical Blacksmithing (Annotated) is the new standard of the classic primer on the craft that shaped modern civilization. Featuring an abundance of information and now more than 1,050 illustrations, this bible of Blacksmithing describes many aspects of working with iron and steel, and is essential for both the do-it-yourself backyard blacksmith and the professional metalworker. It has been re-edited and re-organised to make it easier to use! In addition to its clear and concise instructional material, the book's original editor collected the actual words of contemporary blacksmiths offering their best methods, unique how-tos, original techniques, and knowledge. The Complete Practical Blacksmithing (Annotated) describes the early history of blacksmithing and describes tools used since ancient times. Covers all the important smithing processes: welding, brazing, soldering, cutting, bending, setting, tempering, fullering and swaging, forging, and drilling. Learn how to work on chains, knives, sleds, wagons, horseshoes, and more. Inside you will also find plans for blacksmith shops, which detail chimney building, forge construction, and blueprints for a variety of workbenches. Tool-collectors, Historians, Teachers and DIYers will also find this guide of immense value as it covers the history of blacksmithing tools, and provides a catalog of antique tools, some which are no longer commercially available, accompanied by instructions for repairing, preserving, and replicating, as well as thousands of other useful facts.