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Best Blacksmith Tongs Reviews (2021) – Top Picks & Buying Guide

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced blacksmith, a pair of blacksmith tongs is one of your indispensable tools. Skilled blacksmiths can easily make tongs as they have access to the required tools. But if you’re a beginner looking for the best blacksmith tongs, you’ve certainly come to the proper place.

There are different styles of blacksmith tongs available for holding various types and sizes of stocks. Our blacksmith tongs review will help you to choose the right ones to get started as a beginner. So if you’re interested, keep reading, and you’ll find out.

Contents

  • Top 10 Blacksmith Tongs Comparison Chart
  • Best Blacksmith Tongs – Reviews 2021
    • 1. Caliburn V-Bit Bolt Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Bolt Jaw Tongs
    • 2. Picard Wolf’s Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Wolf Jaw Tongs
    • 3. BetterForge Starter Kit – Best Beginner Blacksmith Tongs Set
    • 4. BetterForge Z-Type Offset Tongs – Best Tongs for Knifemaking
    • 5. Ken’s Custom Iron Rapid Tongs Bundle Set – DIY Blacksmith Tongs
    • 6. Caliburn Small V-Bit Blacksmith Tongs
    • 7. Caliburn Large Blacksmith Wolf Jaw Tongs
    • 8. BetterForge Bolt Jaw Tongs for Blacksmiths
    • 9. Picard 0004700-300 Blacksmith Flat Jaw Tongs
    • 10. Picard 0004930-300 Blacksmith Pin Tongs
  • Blacksmith Tongs Types
    • V-Bit / Bolt Jaw Tongs
    • Wolf Jaw Tongs
    • Flat Jaw Tongs
  • Blacksmithing Tongs Buying Guide
    • Tong Types
    • Tong Sizes and Holding Capacity
    • Tong Material
  • Blacksmith Tongs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
    • Q. What are blacksmith tongs used for?
    • Q. What tongs for beginner blacksmith?
    • Q. What type of blacksmith tongs to use for round stock?
    • Q. What are wolf jaw tongs used for?
    • Q. How long should blacksmith tongs be?
    • Q. Which are the most versatile blacksmith tongs?
    • Q. How much does blacksmith tongs weigh?
    • Q. Where to buy blacksmith tongs?
  • Final Thoughts

Top 10 Blacksmith Tongs Comparison Chart

IMAGEPRODUCTDETAILS
BEST BOLT JAW
Caliburn V-Bit Bolt Jaw Blacksmith Tongs
BEST BOLT JAW
Caliburn V-Bit Bolt Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Bolt Jaw
  • Size: 18 Inches
Check Latest Price
BEST WOLF JAW
Picard Wolf Jaw Blacksmith Tongs
BEST WOLF JAW
Picard Wolf Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Wolf Jaw
  • Size: 16 inches
Check Latest Price
FOR BEGINNERS
BetterForge Blacksmith Tongs Starter Kit
FOR BEGINNERS
BetterForge Tongs Starter Kit
  • Type: V-bit and Wolf Jaw
  • Size: 18 and 16 inches
Check Latest Price
FOR KNIFEMAKING
BetterForge Z-Type Offset Tongs
FOR KNIFEMAKING
BetterForge Z-Type Bolt Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Z-Type Bolt Jaw
  • Size: 17 inches
Check Latest Price
Kens Custom Iron Rapid Tongs Bundle Set
Ken’s Custom Iron Tongs
  • Type: 5 Types
  • Size: Varies
Check Latest Price
Caliburn Small V-Bit Blacksmith Tongs
Caliburn Small V-bit Tongs
  • Type: V-bit
  • Size: 14-1/2 inches
Check Latest Price
Caliburn Large Blacksmith Wolf Jaw Tongs
Caliburn Large Wolf Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Wolf Jaw
  • Size: 18 inches
Check Latest Price
BetterForge Bolt Jaw Tongs for Blacksmiths
BetterForge Bolt Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Bolt Jaw
  • Size: 18 inches
Check Latest Price
Picard 0004700-300 Blacksmith Flat Jaw Tongs
Picard 4700-300 Flat Jaw Tongs
  • Type: Flat Jaw
  • Size: 12 inches
Check Latest Price
Picard 0004930-300 Blacksmith Pin Tongs
Picard 4930-300 Blacksmith Pin Tongs
  • Type: Pin Tongs
  • Size: 12 inches
Check Latest Price

Best Blacksmith Tongs – Reviews 2021

Best Blacksmith Tongs Reviews

1. Caliburn V-Bit Bolt Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Bolt Jaw Tongs

Caliburn V-Bit Bolt Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Bolt Jaw Tongs

If you’re looking for a pair of versatile bolt jaw blacksmith tongs, look no further than these Caliburn V-Bit tongs. The overall length of these tongs is 18 inches, which is the ideal length for blacksmithing and bladesmithing works.

These heavy-duty forged steel tongs will provide you with a slip-resistant grip on various kinds of stocks. As a result, you will achieve better control over the stocks, which allows you to work more efficiently.

With all these features, we believe these are the best bolt jaw tongs for blacksmithing projects. These USA made bolt jaw tongs won’t disappoint you.

Pros
  • Great for square and round stocks.
  • Tough and Reliable.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons
  • Can’t hold all kinds of stocks.
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2. Picard Wolf’s Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Wolf Jaw Tongs

Picard Wolf Jaw Blacksmith Tongs – Best Wolf Jaw Tongs

Are you looking for a set of excellent wolf jaw blacksmith tongs? Check this pair of Picard wolf jaw tongs which are appropriate for various blacksmithing works. You’ll be able to grab round stocks with these tongs securely.

The overall length is 16 inches. If you prefer mid-sized tongs, then this can be your perfect choice. Heavy-duty forged construction made these tongs durable and reliable.

These tongs from Picard are German made. We believe this pair of blacksmith tongs is the best wolf jaw tongs on our list.

Pros
  • Versatile tongs.
  • Forged constructed.
  • Durable riveted jaws.
Cons
  • Can hold only up to 1-inch stocks.
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3. BetterForge Starter Kit – Best Beginner Blacksmith Tongs Set

BetterForge Starter Kit – Best Beginner Blacksmith Tongs Set

Beginner blacksmiths need at least two types of blacksmith tongs: wolf jaw and v-bit tongs. This BetterForge starter kit offers exactly what a beginner blacksmith needs.

This kit includes a pair of wolf jaw tongs, and v-bit (bolt jaw) tongs. The 18 inches V-bit tongs and 16 inches wolf jaw tongs allow you to handle most of the standard stocks.

Both of the tongs are well made and durable. This is undoubtedly the best beginner blacksmith tongs set for the bang for your bucks.

Pros
  • Excellent for beginners.
  • Great value for money.
  • Durable tongs.
Cons
  • They could’ve added flat jaw tongs.
Check Latest Price

4. BetterForge Z-Type Offset Tongs – Best Tongs for Knifemaking

BetterForge Z-Type Offset Tongs – Best Tongs for Bladesmithing Knifemaking

Knifemaking projects are very common in the blacksmithing community. If you’re looking for the best tongs for knifemaking / bladesmithing, this pair of BetterForge Z-Type Offset tongs is the right option for you.

These V-bit tongs are excellent for grabbing all kinds of blades with a firm grip. They are very versatile which allow you to hold flat, square or round stocks as well.

Forged steel construction makes them durable and reliable. They come with an overall length of 17 inches, which is an optimal length for bladesmithing projects.

Pros
  • Excellent for knifemaking.
  • USA made.
  • Sturdy and reliable.
Cons
  • Can’t securely hold stocks above 1-1/2 inches.
Check Latest Price

5. Ken’s Custom Iron Rapid Tongs Bundle Set – DIY Blacksmith Tongs

Kens Custom Iron Rapid Tongs Bundle Set - DIY Blacksmith Tongs

Are you looking for DIY blacksmith tongs? Then check out this Ken’s Custom Iron rapid tongs bundle set. This bundle includes each set of bolt jaw tongs, flat jaw tongs, slot jaw tongs, v-bit tongs and scroll tongs.

All these tongs are made of mild steel which allows you to modify them while needed. The rivets come with each set of tongs, and you can easily make them work with the help of the assembly instruction provided by Ken’s Custom Iron.

It’s a great bundle of blacksmith tongs. If you have access to the tools to make holes in the jaw boss and rivet them, this is certainly an excellent option for you.

Pros
  • Five types of blacksmith tongs.
  • Cover all kinds of stocks.
  • Excellent value for money.
  • Made in the USA.
Cons
  • Tongs require assembly.
Check Latest Price

6. Caliburn Small V-Bit Blacksmith Tongs

Caliburn Small V-Bit Blacksmith Tongs

This pair of small v-bit blacksmith tongs is the newest addition to the lineup by Caliburn. The tongs come with an overall length of 14.5 inches which is the smaller version of their 18 inches tongs.

They make forged constructed tongs, and this pair is no exception. As a result, you can use them over and over without any concerns.

You can firmly hold relatively smaller round and square stocks with these Caliburn small v-bit blacksmith tongs. So if your stocks are smaller than 1 inch, you can rely on this pair of tongs.

Pros
  • Well built.
  • Excellent for small stocks.
  • USA based supplier.
Cons
  • A little bit pricey regarding the stock capacity.
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7. Caliburn Large Blacksmith Wolf Jaw Tongs

Caliburn Large Blacksmith Wolf Jaw Tongs

If you’re looking for an extended set of wolf jaw tongs, the Caliburn large blacksmith wolf jaw tongs are worth checking. They offer a secure grip and enhanced control over the stocks.

The balance between length and weight is excellent. Being 18 inches long, they are only 2 lbs in weight. You can use these well made multi-purpose tongs for blacksmithing, bladesmithing projects.

Pros
  • Excellent grip.
  • Well balanced.
  • Well built.
Cons
  • Can’t hold all kinds of stocks.
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8. BetterForge Bolt Jaw Tongs for Blacksmiths

BetterForge Bolt Jaw Tongs for Blacksmiths

Bolt jaw tongs are extremely handy for bladesmiths and knifemakers. And this set of BetterForge bolt jaw tongs is no exception. If you’re a knifemaker looking for large v-bit tongs set, you should have a look at them.

The heavy-duty forged steel construction makes them sturdy. You can securely hold various kinds of stocks with them.

They are lightweight, so you can comfortably hold them for an extended time. If you want a pair of versatile blacksmith tongs for your projects, go ahead and check them out.

Pros
  • Forged steel construction.
  • Sturdy and durable.
  • Great grip.
Cons
  • Jaws are a little smaller.
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9. Picard 0004700-300 Blacksmith Flat Jaw Tongs

Picard 0004700-300 Blacksmith Flat Jaw Tongs

If you’re looking for an excellent set of flat jaw tongs, look no further than this pair of Picard flat jaw blacksmith tongs. They can firmly grab flat stocks with their flat bits.

The overall length is around 12 inches and weighs only 1.1 lbs which are lightweight and reasonably long for securely grabbing flat materials.

They are forged constructed and made of C35 steel. You can rely on this pair of tongs for all the flat stocks of your blacksmithing projects.

Pros
  • Extremely affordable.
  • Excellent for flat stocks.
  • Forged constructed.
  • Durable.
Cons
  • Can only hold flat stocks.
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10. Picard 0004930-300 Blacksmith Pin Tongs

Picard 0004930-300 Blacksmith Pin Tongs

If you’re looking for pin tongs for your blacksmithing projects, you should go for this pair of Picard pin tongs. They are an excellent alternative of flat jaw tongs with the more grabbing capabilities.

Picard pin tongs are 12 inches long and weigh around 1.2 lbs. They can be convenient for grabbing flat, square and round tongs.

They are well built and durable. For a beginner blacksmith, this is an excellent option.

Pros
  • Can hold different stocks.
  • Well built.
  • Excellent for beginners.
Cons
  • The reins could be longer.
Check Latest Price

Blacksmith Tongs Types

Only a pair of tongs won’t cover all kinds of stocks in your projects. As a result, you require to have several types of blacksmith tongs. Here we will discuss the most versatile tongs to get started as a blacksmith.


V-Bit / Bolt Jaw Tongs

V-Bit tongs are one of the basic blacksmith tongs. The curved opening or hoop works as the passage of objects such as a bolt head. That’s why v-bit tong is also called as ‘bolt jaw tong.’

They can securely hold round, square, or any oddly shaped stocks with their round nose. If you’re into knifemaking or bladesmithing, a pair of v-bit tongs will serve you the best.

Wolf Jaw Tongs

Wolf jaw tongs can grab all varieties of round stocks effortlessly. It can also hold square pieces. As the name suggests, these tongs have multiple pairs of teeth in their jaws, which allow you to have a better grip on materials. 

Besides, you will be able to hold stocks both horizontally and vertically with a pair of wolf jaw tongs.

Flat Jaw Tongs

The word ‘flat’ itself describes what a pair of flat jaw tongs can hold. Yes, you can use these tongs to hold flat stocks. The design is straightforward, and it’s one of the most commonly used blacksmithing tongs. 

Flat stock tong, flat bar tong, or flat jaw tong, whatever you call them, are basically the same thing.

Flat jaw tong has another variation, which is called as “slotted jaw tong.” A slot jaw tong is essentially a flat jaw tong but slotted out in the middle of its jaw. These tongs can also hold flat, round, and square stocks pretty well.

Pin tongs are another variation of flat jaw tongs. The jaws are flat, but they have a hollow area similar to bolt-jaw tongs. As a result, not only flat stocks, they can hold round and square materials as well.

If you’re interested to learn about other types of blacksmith tongs, check this article here.

Blacksmithing Tongs Buying Guide

We highly recommend you to check our best blacksmith tongs buying guide below. Here we will discuss the factors you should look for when buying a pair of blacksmith tongs. 

Tong Types

We discussed various types of blacksmith tongs in the previous section. As we said there is no , you’ll need multiple pieces of tongs for different stocks. So we recommend you to get a pair of v-bit, wolf jaw, and flat jaw tongs. 

As a beginner, these three pairs of tongs will let you hold, lift, and turn almost all kinds of stocks efficiently.

Tong Sizes and Holding Capacity

Blacksmith tongs are available in different sizes. The standard pieces range from 12″ to 18″ in length. The weight will increase along with its size. So make sure the size and weight are in a suitable spot.

The holding capacity of a pair of tongs depends on its bit size and weight. Bit size is responsible for the maximum thickness of stocks it can grab.

The substantial it is, the heavy it can hold. So pick tongs according to the dimensions of your materials.

Tong Material

Experts prefer mild steel as the material for blacksmith tongs. So, make sure the pair of tongs you’re choosing is made of mild steel.

It is non-hardened steel, which allows you to reshape your tongs into its original state. Tongs made of other materials would break while reshaping them frequently.

Blacksmith Tongs Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What are blacksmith tongs used for?

Blacksmith tongs allow you to hold and place metals into the forge, move hot metals from the forge to anvil and grip stocks securely while hammering. As a result, you can keep your hands away from fire and hot metals.

Q. What tongs for beginner blacksmith?

Beginner blacksmiths can start with v-bit, wolf jaw, and flat jaw tongs. These are the basic blacksmith tongs. 

Q. What type of blacksmith tongs to use for round stock?

Both v-bit and wolf jaw blacksmith tongs can hold round stock very well. So you can use any of them.

Q. What are wolf jaw tongs used for?

Wolf jaw tongs are one of the essential blacksmith tongs. With a pair of wolf jaw tongs, you can hold round stocks with an excellent grip.

Q. How long should blacksmith tongs be?

The length of the blacksmith tongs varies with personal preference, size and weight of the stocks. Generally, the range can be 12 to 20 inches.

Q. Which are the most versatile blacksmith tongs?

Bolt Jaw or V-bit and Wolf Jaw tongs are the most versatile tongs. Few other blacksmith tongs are also handy, such as Flat Jaw and Slot Jaw tongs.

Q. How much does blacksmith tongs weigh?

The weight of blacksmith tongs depends on the weight of the stocks you intend to work with. The standard weight is between 1 to 2 lbs.

Q. Where to buy blacksmith tongs?

You can comfortably buy blacksmith tongs from trusted online stores such as Amazon.

Final Thoughts

We believe you’ve learned about various types of blacksmithing tongs from this article. We’ve discussed different styles and reviewed the top-rated blacksmith tongs available on the market. Now, you can choose from our list of the best blacksmith tongs according to your requirements.

Here’s a quick recap of our top list. Check this pair of Caliburn bolt jaw tongs for versatile uses. If you’re looking for a beginner kit, this BetterForge starter kit is an excellent choice. This pair of BetterForge Z-type offset tongs are great for bladesmiths or knifemakers.

If you’ve access to the vital blacksmith tools, check these Ken’s Custom Iron DIY tongs available for an amazing price. The Picard wolf jaw blacksmith tongs will allow you to hold mostly round stocks securely. This pair of Picard flat jaw tongs is an excellent option for flat stocks. And if you’re looking for pin tongs, check these Picard pin tongs.


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By Robert B. Martin

Robert B. Martin is the chief editor at ToolsHungry. He is a certified engineer by profession and a tool enthusiast by heart. Robert always keeps himself engaged in experimenting with different kinds of hand and power tools for various projects Read more...

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