New in Tampa

[Voldsom]

Thanks for the add guys.

I'm Steve from Tampa, FL. 5 years ago, I opened a Gunsmith Shop in my garage. Workflow is good but cyclic. So, in the down times, I began to create knives using simple stock removal method. Suddenly, this became biggest demand service. I now sell on my own site plus Etsy.

Last year, I invested in a small gas forge and learned to hand forge knives from new and repurposed steel as well as making my own forge-welded Damascus.

Yesterday, I got a call from the casting director from History Channel's "Forged in Fire", asking me to compete in season 4 which will start filming soon. They based the invite on my products on Etsy. While, flattered, I had to admit, I am not currently up to the challenge. Primarily because I have no experience with power hammers which is a must for the show.

So, I plan to get that experience some how and be ready for Season 5. Joining here to:

• Get tips on engraving and other marking techniques
• Share resources for tools, training, etc.
• Hopefully connect with someone who is fairly close to Tampa that has a power hammer who would consider renting a small section of their shop and hammer for a chance to gain experience. (If I'm a finalist, the final challenge could take place in that shop giving them great exposure - one week with film crew on-site)