Fullered

Fullered refers to a process primarily used in blacksmithing and metalworking where a groove or channel is intentionally created in a piece of metal. This groove, known as a fuller, is typically formed using a specialized tool called a fuller or a fuller hammer, which has a rounded or beveled face. The purpose of fullering is to reduce the thickness of the metal in a controlled manner, often to shape or strengthen an object.

In blacksmithing, fullering is commonly employed to draw out metal, meaning to make it longer and thinner. By repeatedly striking the metal with a fuller across a specific line, the blacksmith can create a depression, pushing the metal outwards on either side of the groove. This technique is essential for shaping tools, weapons, and decorative items. For example, creating the tang of a knife or shaping the blade of a sword often involves fullering.

The fuller groove can also serve to lighten a piece of metal without significantly compromising its strength. By removing material in a strategic location, the overall weight is reduced while the remaining metal can be reinforced. This is particularly useful in applications where weight is a critical factor, such as in armor or structural components. The shape and depth of the fuller are determined by the desired outcome and the type of metal being worked.