9-27-2025 Blacksmithing Experience
Isaac, a student of Ed VanHoy's heating a railroad spike in the propane fired forge.
Both student's of Ed VanHoy's, father Luis and his son Isaac, working together to shape theor railroad spike knife.
The rhythmic sound of a hammer forming the blade of a railroad spike knife while Luis is learning tapering, bending and twisting skills.
Isaac practicing his techniques for drawing down and upsetting the hot steel as taught by instructor Ed VanHoy.
Isaac watching his dad Luis prepare for using a power hammer while both are properly clad with leather aprons and safety glasses.
Smiles were in all around when the finished knives were revealed. Take notice that long sleeve shirts and long pants played an integral role in keeping this father and son team safe and unharmed. Safety and personal well-being are paramount at Stamacus Knife Works at Old Dock Forge.
9-20-2025 Blacksmithing Experience
9th grade student Will learning how to drill a hole in a hot piece of steel by instructor Ed VanHoy.
Will's father Peter properly using the rebound of the anvil to shape his 2,000 degree Fahrenheit blade tip under the watchful eye of instructor Ed VanHoy.
9th grade student Will drawing out a blade under the watchful eye of instructor Ed VanHoy.
Father and son both shaping knife blades from a former railroad spike.
9th grade student Will at the 100 pound Little Giant power hammer shaping the top of his railroad spike with Instructor Ed VanHoy ensuring that safety protocols are followed.
