There are very few people who think about the continuing need for shoeing horses, yet blacksmiths have been creating horseshoes for centuries. Fortunately, this craft will continue as long as people ride horses. There are many other reasons to learn this craft, and working metal to make knives and swords has seen a revival in recent years. People have discovered it can be done in a small area, and there is little investment to get into blacksmithing.
Whenever a person chooses a craft, they look at costs. Learning the craft of working metal into usable shapes can be a bit pricey, but many of the instruments used can be found in thrift stores at good prices. As long as a person is willing to purchase used forge and anvil, they can find scrap metal pieces that can be reworked into whatever they desire. This brings down the cost of creating objects, and it makes learning the trade a worthwhile investment for many people.
Modern forges do not usually depend upon wood fires and bellows for their heat. Most forges use gas in cylinders, and they produce a hot flame without the need for added air. This makes it a bit costly, but gas is often less expensive to purchase than firewood. Other than the additional purchase of the anvil, a heavy hammer and tongs are the other necessities the crafter needs. Metal cutting tools are also useful, but the flame can be used to cut off unnecessary metal.
The work of a good blacksmith is seldom found in many areas, and crafters who perfect their abilities will find they can cut their costs by taking on work. Many people have a need for metal working, but they find other substitutes when they cannot locate a metal shop where the work can be done reasonably. This is one craft that will eventually pay for itself if the crafter is amenable.
