Smitting

Smitting refers to the process of heating metal and then hammering it into a desired shape. This ancient metalworking technique involves striking the heated metal with a hammer, often on an anvil, to flatten, lengthen, or otherwise deform it. The heat makes the metal more malleable, allowing it to be worked more easily. This process is fundamental to blacksmithing and has been used for millennia to create tools, weapons, armor, and decorative objects.

The term "smitting" itself is derived from Old English and is related to words like "smith" and "smite," indicating the action of striking. Different types of hammers and anvils, along with varying temperatures and hammering techniques, allow for a wide range of results. For instance, controlled hammering can refine the grain structure of the metal, increasing its strength and toughness. Smitting is a labor-intensive process that requires skill and practice to achieve precise and durable results. It is a foundational skill in many traditional crafts and continues to be practiced today, both in historical reenactments and in contemporary art metalworking.