Join renowned blacksmith Mark Ling for an engaging hands-on class where you’ll forge a custom tomahawk-style ax. Learn foundational techniques like punching and drifting to shape your ax head, all under Mark’s expert guidance. Perfect for beginners and intermediate smiths alike, this class offers a unique opportunity to explore traditional blacksmithing methods and leave with a fully functional tomahawk you’ve crafted yourself.

Strenuous Activity: In this class you will be paired with another student where you will use a sledge hammer to strike while they guide the work. Swinging a sledge hammer is a physically strenuous activity.

Instructor: Mark Ling
Location & Duration: The Village Smithy, 10 hours
Materials: All materials provided

Enrollment & Refunds

• Enrollment must be completed at least one week before the class date.

• No refunds are offered once the enrollment fee has been received.

• If a student cannot attend, they may reschedule once on a space-available basis. To reschedule, students must contact us in writing before the class begins at info@pioneerfarms.org. No exceptions.

Prerequisites

• No experience necessary

• After completing it, students become eligible for Basic Blacksmithing: Core Skills.

What to Wear

• A cotton or other natural-fiber shirt (long sleeves optional)

• Long pants or jeans

• Work boots or closed-toe shoes

What to Bring

• Safety glasses (required)

• Hearing protection (optional)

• Water (at least 1 gallon in the summer)

• Sack lunch (classes include a 30-minute break)

• Gourmet sandwiches, chips, and drinks are available for purchase in the General Store.

Age Requirements

• Class is designed for ages 18 and older.

• Ages 15–17 may enroll if a parent or legal guardian signs the attendance release form at the start of class.

• Ages 12–14 may enroll only if a parent or legal guardian also enrolls in and attends the class with them. No exceptions.