Slitting and drifting holes - ornamental blacksmithing

The slit and drift method of forging a hole in an iron bar is a classic blacksmithing technique. By using the slit and drift you can create a hole larger than the bar being pierced.

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Blacksmithing and related activities can be hazardous. These videos are not a substitute for competent professional instruction. Your safety is your sole responsibility. Always use appropriate safety equipment including eye and ear protection when working in the shop. Follow manufactures safety guidelines for the use of all equipment. In the event something shown in one of these videos seems unsafe, it is up to you to make the appropriate changes to protect yourself.

[lawrencecole]

upsetting the bar before you split to avoid suck in, what a master technique

[edwardhugus]

That is an elegant set of holes. I really like the look of the donut shaped holes.

[stelmac]

John your teaching and presentations are a God send. Absolutely brilliant and easy to take in, thank you for your

[stormyeffects]

I have been practicing making some rustic metal rings. I don’t have any capability to drill the holes, so I am trying methods like and similar to this one. I am currently still laying in bed as it is nearing 11 in the morning/afternoon. I told myself I would get up and work on my project, but then my cats fell asleep on me and I’m trapped. I’ve been watching some of your videos as motivation to get up and go work on stuff. I really appreciate all of your great tutorials and sharing of information. Thank you.

[michaeld]

I must say John, you have shown me what this should look like and how to achieve that...I have done this before but now I know how to remedy my mistakes.. Thanks again....

[kevinhansen]

Man, you made that look so easy. Well done and beautiful work

[ronthacker]

Hey Brother John. Yet another great instructional video. thx.

[andresmedina]

Very nice. Thanks for taking time to explain and teach.

[paulorchard]

Great practice piece, I will put on my to do list!

[kensmapleleafretirement]

Thank you for another interesting and educating video. I appreciate

[shortfuse]

I have just recently started watching your videos (subscribed as well), and wish to compliment you on the quality of your work. I have been smithing for several years and appreciate your demonstration methods.

Your video quality is very good; among the best. I particularly appreciate the way you don't rush through a project like this, the time you take to explain each step and why, and your attention to detail even though it was just a demonstration piece. I strongly recommend your videos to any smith, beginning or experienced, since there is always something new or better to learn.

[jojomama]

Thought it may have been interesting to measure the length of bar after the first hole but that's just me.Great instruction, as usual, and your work is always something to behold.Thanks again as I believe you make us all better smiths!

[terryhale]

To protect my anvil face when slitting, I took a plate about two inches wider than my anvil and bent the ends down over each side. That ensures a large area to work on and ensures the plate stays put.

[bryanrobinson]

The new lighting is really making seeing your work a lot better for video!! I'm thinking the upsetting from each end is what shortened the overall length, but not the middle section.

[hosiercraft]

Beautiful job in the slit and round drift, love the look and feel of that style. Any chance of a slit and drift with a square and diamond hole, dressing the diamond with very blocks and what to watch out for with square holes? I've been a hobby Smith for 30+ years and YouTube is a great place to learn. Thanks allot Joe

[hayward]

I am fortunate enough to have a signed copy of the Francis Whitaker's "Cookbook"

[lenblacksmith]

Love your teaching video's John. When I do some drifting etc, and holding a punch with tongs like I did yesterday, I use a tong clip to hold it all tight.

[jllaine]

a great way to do the user end of a frying pan handle, add width for gripping without adding weight,

[donstephenson]

Nice technique. Only one hammer miss. LOL Nice work. Thanks for sharing.

[dansworkshop]

FYI the book can be purchased at centaur forge or on eBay for around $40 US.