Wrought iron is every blacksmith’s lifeblood. Without it, you can’t forge most of the stuff. Do blacksmiths buy wrought iron from an official store or something? Not really. They use different methods of obtaining it. Only a few blacksmiths who need it in bulk order it from overseas.
If you’re just starting as a new blacksmith and need quick and cheap ways of buying wrought iron, then this guide will help you.
Junkyards
Most of the times, junkyards are a blacksmith’s paradise and provides answer to where to buy wrought iron. They contain all sorts of old iron junk. From broken car frames to chains, you can find anything there. If you’re buying in bulk, then you can get the iron for a meager price compared to ordering it. The quality may be low, but you’ll have to work with it.
Blacksmiths usually require small bars or rods or iron to forge stuff. Junkyards sometimes provide large pieces and sometimes too short. You’ll have to cut the larger ones into smaller ones to work with them. And you’ll have to use the little ones for small tools and nails.
So, in a way, your options are limited when you’re sourcing your iron from a junkyard. You should keep every detail in mind, and how it’ll affect the cost you’ll be putting into it and the profit you’ll get out of it.
eBay
eBay is an excellent choice for those seeking where to buy wrought iron quick. Most of the local blacksmiths who have extra iron, sell it on eBay so others can buy and use it. You may sometimes get good quality wrought iron for a reasonable price but don’t expect any bulk amounts.
There are only a few vendors who sell wrought iron in the US in bulk quantities. Blacksmiths who need small quantities rely on junkyards, eBay, and other such methods. Those who require bulk amounts, import them from the UK mostly.
Wagon Rims
Do you need where to buy wrought iron junks? Another local source of wrought irons are wagon and cartwheels. You can find old ones at junkyards. They contain a considerable amount of iron. The quality may differ from wheel to wheel, but if you’re lucky, you can get good quality iron for a low price.
Old hammers and Tomahawks
You can always reuse the items you forged previously but no longer need it. This can save you a lot of money and raw iron. Old hammers and tomahawks can be found at junkyards, or you can buy them from other blacksmiths if they no longer need them. It can help you to find answers to where to buy wrought iron.
Structural Pieces
Many old structures, like small buildings and silos, contain a considerable amount of raw iron in them. If you can get your hands on one such building or a silo, you can get enough to you’re your shop running for months.
Conclusion
Wrought iron is sought after by many blacksmiths, and they welcome any sources that can provide them with a constant supply. But one of the main challenge is where to buy wrought iron. Blacksmithing is an old tradition, and not many suppliers are out there who can offer an endless amount of wrought iron. So, blacksmiths rely on local sources and of course, they got each others back.