Do you know blacksmiths also forge other parts of a sword aside from the blade? A basket hilt is an art that has existed since the early modern era. It is a guard at the handle of the sword that protects the hand. Do you wish to know how to forge a basket hilt? Let’s find out!
Although there are different types of hilts, the basket hilt is usually characterized by its basket shape. It has beautiful designs and still performs the role of protecting the hand. Its basket shape allows it to completely protect the hand.
The regular shape of basket hilt makes it appear difficult for a distant observer. However, the process is not difficult in the actual sense. One notable thing about this process is that it is not rigid.
Forging a basket hilt requires a high level of creativity. There are several existing designs of a basket hilt, and you can even improvise yours. You can keep the design simple or add touches of class and elegance.
Below are easy and practical steps to guide you through the forging process of a basket hilt. While creating your design, don’t forget to keep the basket shape in mind.
Essentials
There are some tools and materials that are essential for the forging process of a basket hilt. These essentials include;
Forge
Instructions on How to Forge a Basket Hilt
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
The first step in most blacksmithing processes is to gather the needed materials. The materials you would need are dependent on the design of the basket hilt you want to create.
Here, we would be creating a simple basket hilt. Therefore, you would need thin steel rods that can be easily folded. If you intend to add other designs, you can get preformed designs.
However, it is advisable to start with simple designs. You can add flexibility and loads of designs as you get better over time.
Step 2: Measure and Cut
You need to cut the steel rod into several pieces. Each piece will form different parts of the hilt. The longest rod should be long enough to form the framework of the basket hilt.
Other rods and materials that will form the mesh will be attached to this framework. Therefore, it might be the most crucial piece in the mix.
Step 3: Form the parts :
Forging a basket hilt is easier when you form the individual parts before joining them together. The first and the most crucial part to form is the framework. Other parts that form the basket mesh are attached to this framework.
If you intend to add additional design like the S-shape metal, it is best to make them independently and get them ready before this process.
Quick Note
We expect that you already have a preformed handle for your sword. If not, you can include making the handle in your project. The handle is usually based on individual needs, desires, or types of sword.
The handle will determine the type, size, and dimension of the hilt you would create. Don’t forget that you are forming the basket hilt around this handle.
Step 4: Forming the Framework
The framework of the basket hilt is the most crucial part of the process. It is crucial because it will dictate the size and dimension of the hilt. It is the most influential piece on the outcome of the project.
Quick Steps
- Get a thin rod of suitable length. Your work would be half done if you can get one that is already in a circle shape. If not, you have to give it the shape.
- Heat the thin rod to a workable temperature.
- Hammer out the inside portion of the steel to give a dome-like shape around the handle
- Join the dome-shape framework to the handle of the sword to form a complete skeleton for the basket hilt.
You should ensure that the dome-shaped steel is firm around the handle.
Step 5: Joining
Now, it is time to join the other parts of the basket hilt to form the complete mesh. This step is highly flexible, depending on the design you want to create.
Remember, we will keep the design simple here; therefore, we are only joining other thin rods around the framework to create a mesh.
Quick Steps
- Use a suitable joining technique. You can consider forge welding with a propane torch.
- Heat the point of attachment with your propane touch till it reaches a welding temperature.
- Hammer this point gently till you have a perfect weld. Avoid hard strikes that can distort the entire shape of the basket hilt.
Step 6: Cleanup and Finish
You can clean off the weld slag from the project. The finishing is dependent on your choice for this project. Just ensure you polish, clean, and give your hilt the best outlook.
FAQs on How to Forge a Basket Hilt
Question
Can I forge a basket hilt from scrap?
It is possible to forge a basket hilt from scrap. However, it might be a little challenging because basket hilt requires lightweight, flexible steel. Getting materials with these specifications from scraps can be quite tricky.
Question
What are the uses of basket hilt?
Basket hilt, just like every other hilt, is primarily to protect the hand while holding a sword. The basket hilt is usually forged in a way that allows comfort and easy carriage of the sword. Other uses of basket hilt are to improve grip and allow easy carriage.
Question
What are other suitable materials for making a hilt?
Aside from using thin steel, there are other suitable materials for making a sword hilt. These materials include; wire, leather, and wood. All these materials also ensure comfort while holding a sword.
Video on How to Forge a Basket Hilt
Warnings
The precautions to take while forging a basket hilt include;
- Ensure the use of gloves, apron, and other protective materials.
- Be careful while using the propane torch to avoid burn.
- Hammer carefully with precision and technical strikes only.
- Ensure proper ventilation in your workspace.
