i would just like to get a list of some minor tools needed to start making bits and spurs. just your basics. when you shape metal, do you use a forge or a torch? who cuts with a torch and who uses a saw? sorry if i'm being a pain, but i really want to do this.

You can do a lot with a torch sander and files,then buy tools as you figure things out

Baquero

You could find a used band saw, slow the speed of the blade, replace the blade with small metal cutting blade. They work great for rough cutting bit cheeks, etc. Any tools to speed up final shaping, finishing and polishing. Remember when working the metal any ding or scratch you put in it will have to be sanded or polished out, so be careful.

_________________
Norm Harris, Jr.
"The outside of a Horse is good for the inside of a Man"

Baquero

I have been making bits and spurs for over 22 years. It is my full time job.
I started with a torch, bolt cutters, hand grinder, and a vice. I later bought
a tig welder, a wire welder, And a plazma cutter. All the belt sanders,
buffers, benders, and other equipment in my shop, I built my self for pennies
on the dollar. I have used the thousand dollar sanders and like my belt sander that I built in a day or so, for $75.00. It's fun and I save so much
money. If I can help you let me know.
Rod

I AGREE WITH ROD. I HAVE BEEN DOING THIS FOR 18 YEARS AND STARTED WITH VERY LITTLE. I AM NOT A FULL TIME SPUR AND BIT MAKER BUT HAVE MADE 90% OF MY EQUIPMENT. BUILDING THE EQUIPMENT MAKES YOU A BETTER BIT AND SPUR MAKER.

I bought a cheap band saw from haror frieght for $ 160 and made it into an upright saw. I use it all the time.
Jim

I think, if you're serious about giving this a try, a band saw(like Jim suggested) for cutting parts and a decent size oxy/acet. torch for soldering/welding and bending are all you really need for bigger $ items. You will of course need a decent assortment of files and smaller hand tools, but as you progress you quickly figure out other things that will make your life easier. A mig welder or tig welder would be the next on my list if I were you(depending on how you are with a torch-they sure make cleanup on you stuff a lot easier).
Also be prepared for a scrap pile by your bench-as you will make mistakes and screw up, but it's all apart of the learning process. I feel that the only way to learn is by doing it ( getting help long the way sure helps make your scrap pile smaller!)

These are all excellent suggestions for tools to get started with. I would add a small drill press to the list. You can get these for about $80. new or you can find used ones at swap meets. You can set them up with a buffing wheel, drum sander, etc.

If you plan to make 2 piece Cal. style spurs you don't even need a welder since the shank is riveted to the heelband.

Larry

I guess I'm te primative one here, I don't own any power eguipment except for a hand drill, belt sander/buffer, and a gravermeister. Everything is hand cut w/hacksaw with either a fine flat blade, or round carbide plated blade for radiused cuts. The file is the mainstay for shaping and roundind everything. Parts are assymbled by riveting, or soldering.

I know my work is not the best around, but as you can see it does'nt take much to get started, then add what you can/want as you can afford it.

_________________
Billy & Amber Dodson.
BAD Western Wurks.
Geronimo,Tx.