Forging a Bearded Axe: Nils Ogren's Step-by-Step Guide

There's something primal about forging an axe. It's not just about making a tool; it's about connecting with a lineage of craftspeople stretching back millennia. In this video, Nils Ogren demonstrates that connection, taking us through the full process of forging a bearded axe – entirely by hand. No power hammers, no grinders, just steel, heat, and a whole lot of skill. If you're looking for a deep dive into traditional techniques, look no further.

Nils doesn’t shy away from the details. He starts with laying out the process, marking the location of the eye punch on the billet. The care he takes in ensuring the punch is aligned is key – a crooked eye is a frustrating problem to fix. He explains the reasoning behind rotating the billet to even out any inaccuracies in your holding, a tip any bladesmith can appreciate. This attention to detail is what separates a good maker from a true artisan.

The process of drifting the eye and shaping the lugs is a lesson in controlled force and understanding how metal flows. Notice how he uses the peen side of his cross pin hammer to shape the lugs, working from the middle outwards. That’s a technique you’ll see echoed by many a Blade Angel.

What's particularly compelling is Nils's explanation of shaping the beard. The use of the anvil's horn to refine the profile and ensure the edge is true to the design is a classic technique. It's a constant back-and-forth process, checking the design and adjusting the forge work – a hallmark of a practiced hand.

The “taco method” for opening up the blade to create space for the edge steel is a clever solution, especially when working without grinders. The flux and forge welding process itself is beautifully demonstrated, showing the fundamental skill required for combining different steel pieces.

Even after the forging is complete, Nils emphasizes the importance of refining the profile and establishing the edge. The use of a file, rather than power tools, is a testament to his commitment to traditional methods. He rightly points out the value of starting with a narrow, rough edge before working your way to a finer finish.

Finally, the normalization and quenching process highlights the critical importance of heat treating. The slow cooling after normalization helps relieve stress and prevent cracking, while the quench hardens the blade. If you're new to bladesmithing, studying these steps is crucial for understanding the science behind a good heat treat.

If you’re looking to expand your skills, consider joining a Rogue Blades Field Trip to a local bladesmithing shop or attending a Live Workshop at a HolyPlace. These experiences offer invaluable hands-on learning.

Ready to elevate your craft? Find a Blade Angel near you and start learning. List a custom commission to put your skills to work, or create a creator profile to share your work with the community.