Page 7
Forming the wing
I place a heavy T shaped stake in the vice. This hollow ground area
works well for forming opposing curves like the ones at the base of greaves.
The fan of the knee will curve to the back yet flair slightly at the sides.
These two curves oppose each other and require some force to form. The shape
when finished is very strong.
I used the broader face of my raising hammer with strong hits, striking just
slightly to the right of the stake to armour contact point. This stretches
and thins the metal in the back area of the wing. This spot is not as likely
to be struck with a weapon so it is acceptable to be moderately thinner.
Striking the wing slightly off to the right of the stake (or left if you are left handed) causes it to curve
towards where the back of the leg would be when worn. Several passes may
be needed to get the shape rough formed.
The above picture is a little deceptive. The right side of the stake is symmetrical
to the left. I am using a heavy planishing hammer to strike inside V shape
in the wing. The hits are fairly strong but controlled. After the desired
rough shape is achieved a few more passes can be made to slightly planish
the recessed area of the wing.
The recess of the wing is now rough formed and ready for clean up.
I used the medium ball peen hammer to sharpen the centre of the V from the
inside. Medium light hits were applied to the steel contacting near the edge
of the anvil. You can strike the rest of the area of the V from the inside to nearly planish
the area provided your anvil surface is fairly smooth and clean.
The crease is defined and the recessed area is nearly planished.
Next Page
Expanding the wing
