In this fascinating and useful project book for beginning and intermediate level blacksmiths and hobbyists, twenty-four master blacksmiths share their techniques on a great variety of jobs, ranging from the basic and simple to the more complex and artistic.This large 250-page hardcover book measures 9-1/2-inches x 11-1/4-inches and contains 48 different blacksmithing projects. The individual steps of each job are clearly illustrated with high quality close-up color photos.Secrets of the Forge begins with basic smithing jobs such as twisting bars and making spearhead shapes and scrolls. As you progress through the book the projects become more difficult and complex and involve forging truly artistic iron sculptures such as a duck in flight, a snail, flowers, a dragon, a nude, and more.The book concludes with two highly specialized projects: making a Damascus steel blade, and the construction of a fully functional hand-forged lock.There is a wealth of knowledge in this excellent book. Experienced professional smiths will get as much from it as novices. Antonello Rizzo is also the author of The Blacksmith's Project Book: Intermediate & Advanced Projects from European Masters which picks up where Secrets of the Forge leaves off.