A pilgrimage to Bladesmithings Mecca

[Steve Nuckels]

I attended an open house tour of Mr. Bill Moran's shop near Braddock Heights, Maryland.  

I had the opportunity to meet Mr. Moran at his shop in 2004 and had not been back until this Sat.

Mastersmith Jay Hendrickson, a long time friend and apprentice of Mr. Moran was giving forging demonstrations and answering questions about Mr. Moran,the shop and knife making.

It was a humbling experience being in the shop smelling the coal burning and hearing the anvil ring, and knowing this is where the Master toiled through trial and error to unlock the long kept secret and mystery of Damascus.  You could feel Mr. Moran's presence in the shop and I was sure he was there in the shadows with a big smile on his face.

 
THE SHOP

 
Flagstone forge

 
Power hammer

 
Me and MS Jay Hendrickson

 


 
Jay on the 25lb powerhammer




Jay and Bladesmith Scott Floyd from West-by-God Va.


Steve
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ABS Apprentice
Potomac Forge
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IN GOD WE TRUST

[Lin Rhea]

I'd sure like to see that place myself. I'm glad you got to enjoy it.     Lin

[Renaissance Man]

I've got to get down there too. I loved talking with Mr. Moran, a great down to earth fellow. he used to buy arrows from me and it was kick seeing him and Jay together at Denton Hill, they used to sit with me and shoot the breeze. I introduced Mr. Moran to my son and told him that this gentleman is one of the great Bladesmiths of our time. My son said show him the knife you forged Dad, i said no feeling rather silly producing it in front of Bill. But he asked to see it and complimented me on the work, which I had a lot of help with and checked the edge. Told my son that your Dad appreciates beautiful simple things, said it was a sign of good man.
Made a fellow feel right special if you know what I mean.

[Tom I.]

Great report, Steve....thanks for sharing..
Tom I.