Vevor Tongs: A Practical Look at New Tools in the Forge

There's a point every blacksmith reaches where you realize you need more tongs. It's not a matter of vanity; it's a matter of efficiency. Having the right tool for the job, especially when you're hammering out a run of hardware or tackling a restoration project, saves time and frustration. Gary Huston, over in the UK, recently had that experience and shared his assessment of a set of Vevor blacksmithing tongs – and his honest opinion is worth considering.

Sometimes a forge can feel like a constant refinement, a shaping not just of metal, but of the smith himself. Like Isaiah says, He'll forge the smith, after all. Huston’s video is a refreshingly practical look at a set of new tools, reminding us that even the most experienced among us are always learning, adapting, and finding new ways to improve our ironwork.

Huston’s review isn’t a breathless endorsement. He acknowledges he didn’t particularly want more tongs, but the arrival of a power hammer made the prospect of having a wider selection genuinely useful. What’s immediately striking is the heft of these tongs – chunky jaws and robust construction. He rightly points out that the high-carbon steel claim needs to be put to the test in the fire. A proper test is about more than just feeling the weight; it's about seeing how the steel behaves under heat and pressure.

The user manual included was a nice touch – a testament to the detail some manufacturers are putting into their offerings. Huston’s assessment of the offset on some of the tongs is a valuable observation. While a slight inconvenience, he correctly surmises that it might be necessary to avoid interference with hand placement. It's this kind of practical consideration that separates a cursory review from one that truly informs a blacksmith's decision.

He puts the tongs through a series of tests, using them on railroad spikes, bolts, flat stock, and more. The adjustments required highlight the importance of a good fit. A poorly adjusted tong can be dangerous, leading to slips and potentially damaging your work. Seeing how the tongs performed under pressure—holding a spike for a drawout, for example—is invaluable. Huston’s commentary on the bolt tongs and their dual-direction holding capability demonstrates a keen understanding of their versatility.

Ultimately, the Vevor tongs seem to offer a good balance of quality and affordability. While they might not be heirloom-grade tools, they appear capable of handling a significant amount of work. As with any tool, understanding its limitations is key. Huston’s honest assessment – noting the slight shortcomings of the flat tongs and their performance with railroad spikes – is a sign of a craftsman who values practicality over hype.

If you're looking to expand your tong collection or are just starting out and need to outfit your forge, this video offers a valuable perspective. Remember, every tool is an extension of the smith’s hand, and choosing wisely can make all the difference in the final product.

Looking to deepen your skills? Consider finding a Master Smith near you, signing up for a forge class, or even listing a custom commission to put your newfound knowledge to the test. You can also create a profile and connect with fellow blacksmiths on Sovereign.ink.