The term hand-forged has been loosely thrown around these days. It conjures up a feeling of nostalgia, ruggedness and grit from an earlier time.
But are all things labeled as hand-forged, really that?
You probably know the immediate answer – NO
But how to tell, that is the next question, which takes a little more inspection to know for sure.
Truly hand-forged items involve a forge, hammers, tongs, anvil and skill.
Here are some tips to discern if something is really hand-forged:
- Price – usually items that are hand-forged are more expensive than the knock offs. If you see something at a big box store that is labeled hand-forged – be suspicious. Hand forging is a special skill that takes time.
- Items are perfectly matched or symmetrical – Rarely are items that are hand-forged perfectly matched (if in pairs) of perfectly symmetrical. Human hands rarely produce perfect works. If you see something that is labeled hand-forged and is perfect – more examination is warranted.
- Seams that run along the side of a “hand-forged” object - upon close inspection, if you see a seam that runs along one side of the object, more than likely it is cast, not hand-forged.
Taking a little time, can ensure that what you are buying is truly hand-forged.
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