I'm 68 years old and thought I was too old to start a little forging hobby in my back yard even tho I have longed to for over a year now as I'm now retired. This was inspirational, I'm getting off my ass and will start with a homemade forge, hammers, tongs and a home made anvil. I've been watching forging videos and feel like I'm gonna have a ball now. It took a guy 20 years older than me, to wake me up. Thank you very much sir.
That should be no problem :) look at alec steele...he is 19 years old and makes amazing damascus knifes. You can learn metalworking incredibly fast when you have the right teachers/ the right information sources
Having known Cy for a number of years, it is a beautiful thing to see his work shared with and admired by so many on this platform. He really is a rare breed of man today, an excellent craftsman, and a hell of a guy.
I just recently met him as I began learning blacksmithing and he has been an amazing mentor to me as I started. If it was for him i would still be pushing with a hammer not swinging it.
@@honestjason7854 while I agree with you that it’s stupid to expect everything to be done in a clean shop with perfect equipment there are some good points about safety that shouldn’t be ignored but I guess once you get to be as old as cy you can pretty much do whatever you want in regards to safety
My 9 year old that shares my RUclips account was sitting on the bed watching my phone and I said "what ya watching more super heroes?" He replied "No I'm watching the hero of The Green Valley Forge." I instantly knew that he stumbled on some of the videos I watch and proudly sat with him and finished watching. Thank you Cy, Scott, and Nate you guys are really doing good for us all.
The difference between an artist and a craftsman. Function first, then form to whatever degree time and inclination allow. No measuring, no jigs, no magnets or laser temperature sensors... Just a guy who knows how long, how wide, how thick, what angle, what color, how it should feel... I'll bet he even uses his sense of smell to tell him things about the work. A joy to watch. Thanks.
I wouldn't call the blade ugly. It's not beautiful, but it is functional and as a nice serious look about it. But the reason is simple... it's a three hour blade. If you want beauty, give the man a little more working time. lol
My six year old son and I just met Cy at the Fort Umpqua days in Elton. He is the real deal. Nice man and it's clear that everyone around him pays their respects. Thanks for the chat, Cy.
Thank you for using your video skills to share Cy's talents with us. Without people like you, most of us would never see a master applying his skills. Awesome video.
@@oddish2253 Bullshit. Tons of them and a more by the day, thanks t0 videos like these I know a dozen Iraq/Afghanistan Veterans, my age, that are taking up steel work. Hell! There's even TV shows about it!
Cy is an amazing old fellow, and I know many old timers just like him. And I agree tat Americans turned into a bunch of crazy consumers that didn't make anything and bought cheap made in china crap. BUT, that's changed. Real Men are back!
Here's a man that's 80 years old, used to have a cattle business, and STILL runs a functional forge. I would certainly love to be able to do similarly at such an age.
Natural Talent, Years of Experience, & Just a plain joy for his craft... with no gloves too all in three hours to boot...Hell Yeah. One B.A.M.F in my opinion. Rock on Cy. I know I'm late to this video but thank you, I learned so much in such a short amount of time.
I got hooked on the house you're building, I'm a contractor, and learned so much! Thank you! I'm also a beginner knife maker, and I stumble upon your blacksmithing videos and learning so much! THANK YOU SO MUCH! All the tricks and ways of doing things, and doing them with quality and without cutting corners! Just can't thank you enough, even at 57 years of age, you're helping me grow! Just can't say it enough! THANK YOU!
That was the best 25minute video I have watched all year. I have not watched any that is longer in many many months. Every second was worthwhile. Thanks.
A joy to watch. Considerer yourself a privileged guy, to be able to be in touch with a person like Cy and to absorb some of his knowledge. Please upload more videos of Mr. Cy, and tell him how we love to see him working!
I'm 26 years old, and seeing video's like this gives me more drive then anything else. I wish to become as great as this in time. Knife making has quickly become a passion of mine and I strive for perfection in everything I do. Thank you for showing us this video. Thank you for sharing his skill
I'm 65 years old and always been creative, I do have some very unique attributes to my name of which I'm very proud...BUT how I wish I was blessed to have a teacher like this talented man....Thank you for the video and God Bless
Send this guy to compete on forged in fire!! He'll mop the floor with everyone there with time to spare!! A wonder to watch him work. As a knifemaker myself, I can only hope to be a tenth of what he is.
PaladinBlades people thought Walter Sorrels would crush the competition, he failed on the second challenge. He did turn one of the most beautiful finished profiles after round one considering he got the hardest material to work with.
Hadi Farah I know I was rooting for him the whole time. But this guy has significantly more experience than a lot of people. Really rapid pace environment thoroughly. Might be tough on the guy.
The problem with the first part of that challenge is how hot it gets in the studio where they film the challenge, they turn off the AC and some of the contestants break down due to the heat. Just taking his health into consideration, it might not be good for him. Although I can't speak for him either on any account.
I was watching this in amazement the whole time. Beautifully fluid work. The heat treatment along the edge was done more precisely than I have ever seen in such a short time. Near the end I was curious of the balance as it looked really close. After seeing you spin it, I realized that all in all, that is one of the best working knives I have ever seen. I would be honored to used that knife...and probably for a LONG time
This is one of those vid's that you can watch and again and again. Excellent presentation depicting Cy's craftsmanship. I mean , Jeeez...3hours for a working blade !!
I'm 42 and just now starting my blade smithing journey! Bought a bunch of old Blacksmithing tools but anvils are so scarce I resorted to a cheap one from harbor freight but gonna get started either way! Love watching Mr Cy work!
Yes, but with open cuts in dry skin and constantly in direct contact with harmful chemicals. Chemicals such as but not limited to Epoxies. Wear gloves my friend.
Great saying. Ive always believed, Real men dont wear gloves. I never really had the luxury really but, i guess you just get used to it and not afraid to chip a nail like most guys do. "Tough hands grow their own gloves" thank you well said, it takes one to know one.
My daughter's mother bought me a knife from cy for when my daughter was born back in 2019, it's cable damascus with an Arizona iron wood hand, it's a hunter with false edge, it's beautiful, probably my most cherished material item I'll ever own, cy and his wife were amazing during the process of ordering and making it, wonderful people, I can never thank them enough
Amazing stuff! When I was in high school, I was in metal shop class and remember much of it. I had intended at that time to go into some kind of field where I can use my hands, but one thing and career led to another and now I find myself 52 years old and suddenly have an urge in my life to do things like this. I found Jimmy DiResta 2 or 3 years ago and it rekindled me and I started acquiring machines, grinders, drill presses, bandsaws and the like and seeing your videos and Cy inspire me further and I thank you for it!
Wow that was just brilliant, would love to train with a craftsman like Cy. Thank you so much for bringing us this video, was a total pleasure seeing this master at work.
cy's an incredible man. and the fact that he's 80 is just astonishing. but! for a damascus steal it is not a good pattern at all... although in 3 hours no one will be able to achieve a better job then cy, but again, damascus is all about the pattern
I love the attitude of the craftsmen featured on this channel. "Don't sit around. Just go do it." You captured that spirit perfectly in this video. Thanks for sharing.
How the hell does this have 116 thumbs down?? Lot of people on here being internet badasses trying to put down this guy's craftsmanship. I've been blacksmithing for a little over a year now, not long at all, and I have probably made two dozen knives and another dozen axes and what not and I can tell you, what this guy did in 3 hours would have taken a lesser skilled smith 2 days, if not more. Cy worked with the efficiency of a man that knew exactly what needed to be done, when and how with no hemmhawing between steps... It really was amazing. What I would give to be able to spend a week learning from this devil dog... And I'd even bring a box of crayons for him to snack on (inside joke between Soldiers and Marines). Well done, Sir. Well done indeed.
well lets see here. he doesn't etch the knife till near 20 minutes in, so.... your math is a bit off. thanks for calling me out on that. All i was trying to do was answer a question about some things that may have been the issue. For all we know it could have been the end too.
So COOL!!! As my dad & grandpa would say "you can't beat a professional, and they make it look so easy". Note, my dad & grandpa came from the era where to be a professional meant to be a journeyman/master craftsman.
I know this is old and you may never see this comment but thank you for sharing this with us. Looking at guys like this and yourself work is such an honor to see.
he is a master and watching him I pure joy. I am very glad that you take the time to make these videos so that other people can see art in motion and they can be passed on for others to see. Thank you and thank him.
After reading many of the comments regarding Cy's lack of PPE and seemingly lack of any kind of safety procedures, I think it's safe to say that, at 80, Cy knows what he's doing. It is true that "safety" has come a long way in the past few decades and I'd venture to say that some of it is even warranted. But, if you watch closely, you will see that all that he does is a calculated risk. That is a result of wisdom gained from years of experience and a healthy respect for equipment and what they can do. But, I must say, the cannon freaked even me out! Keep forging!
The trouble with you "modern" people is " Big Brother" and everybody being scare of Litigation. In our days (I'm 77yrs) We didn't worry about any of that. You were/are, responsible for your own actions Good or bad. We all did what was necessary to finish any job we were CAPABLE of. learned over many yrs. No Trade for this, and Trade for that just personal skills to do your job. and finish it to a professional level. You lot have NO idea. I used to operate Cranes and draglines. My "doggie" always rode the hook. SAFELY. Nowadays you'd die. Plus I was a diesel Tech. with city and guild trade papers. We did the whole vehicle/machine . And KNEW how to do it . Engine/transm.Axles Brakes steering.Hydraulics. ALL were the job. Modern electronics are a bit different though. We were competent through doing Whatever. WIth nobody looking over our shoulders. Cy is just a bloke that is good at his job. With "the touch". Count his fingers. eyes. skin. All there???. He's competent. And no different to what the rest of us were. GOOD at his skills. and SAFE. in his own mind. That's what counts. You wouldn't believe what we used to "walk" around on the hook. with Dragline/crane lifted up on toes of tracks. Often with a loader./dozer holding the ballast blocks down behind you to stop it tipping. We KNEW our machinery and what it (and us) was capable of. SAFELY.. Not what somebody sitting on his arse in an office said so.
Mack Carson Hats off to you and your generation! I'm 24, and was raised with a no nonsense attitude from my grandparents. You get in, get it done, and you are responsible for your own actions. It's amazing to see someone who is comfortable in their own skin, doing what they know and love. I had the privilege of watching Nahum G. Hersom work in his personal forge (spare garage) for a few hours. He's the one who opened my eyes to the wonders of forging. He had very similar economy of movement, though his pieces leaned toward the decorative. At the end of my visit, he gave me a small cluster of berries he had forged himself, simply because I was the grand-daughter of his friend. They were so pretty, and I wish I knew where they went. Anyway, it's a pleasure to watch and learn from those whom have mastered their craft! Thank you to those who allow their skills to be showcased like this! :)
This Blacksmith should be in Forged in Fire TV show. He would spank the competition without breaking a sweat. I just hope I can be as knowledgeable and skilled as this man some day.
Could you please add info on the Bull power hammer. Never seen one and I love how small it was, and it was a honour to be able to watch a master work , there should a be a hall of fame for guys like Cy so we can remember how it was done the right way , thanks.
To my eyes, the beauty of Cy's knives are in the "handmade-ness" of them. They're not factory made products that are all exact clones of each other, with no way to distinguish one from the next. Each of Cy's knives is an individual with no two exactly alike. There are small imperfections and flaws that makes each a one off. And that's the way it should be, because these are working knives for working men. None of that "collectible, display on the wall" stuff here. Just an honest knife made for honest work.
Scott thanks for sharing Cy with us all!! What a Master and joy to watch. I can only imagine what it’s like hanging out with him in his shop and spending time talking. Thanks for sharing would love to see much more with him!!
it would be a great and very appreciative video request to put up the entire video as it was done live and available to listen to the conversations much could be learned I'm being able to watch and listen to the whole video for Cy is a true inspiration and blacksmith to our country awesome video thanks very much
"He's an 80 year old man. This is unbelievable." So... he's had almost three decades of experience, knows his tools, the metal, and what shapes he wants? I don't want to diminish his accomplishment, because he's clearly a fantastic bladesmith. He's doing a fantastic job, and clearly knows his work. But it bothers me when people make it sound like being a master craftsman is something mystical, like hardly anyone could reach this level of experience. Go watch someone who has been a woodworker, a painter, a musician, or whatever craft, for 30 years, and you'll see something similar. It's something better than mystical: it's determination, practice, and the willingness to spend years learning everything there is to know about a craft.
Well said sir! It's not unbelievable, it's the end product of many years honing an already well taught talent. We should applaud the long time spent perfecting the craft rather than saying oh golly gosh, how is he so good!
It's a testament to a guy who can still pull it off at an age where many people are losing their sight, dexterity, stamina, and simply can't work at their peak anymore. People who can become a master and stay a master even past the age where many start to lose their skills is impressive.
Beautiful words.... thanks for sharing this story My sledge and hammer lay reclined, My bellows, too, have lost their wind, My fire's extinct, my forged decayed, And in the dust my vise is laid; My coal is spent, my iron gone, My nails are driven-my work is done.
I enjoyed the video. I especially liked your narration and style. Very relaxed. Made me think we were sitting at the kitchen table talking over a good cup of coffee.
Isnt it amazing what a life of hard work does for a human body...you can do this(barring disabling accidents) at 80! He more than likely never touched drugs & ate earth grown, healthy food...look @ President Trump at 72!
My sincere compliments to this gentleman. Mr Cy Swan. Great skill and judgement. Thank you. Thanks also for the excellent video, narration and guitar playing. Best wishes, from Sussex, England.
Brilliant craftsmanship !!! Many thanks for making the video and many thanks to Cy for sharing his craft with the world. Knife making is a truly beautiful craft.
I’m new to the world of blacksmithing and have recently started making my own knives. This video is truly inspiring and has given me a lot of helpful information that I’ve been adding to my own process of knife making. Thanks for putting out such high quality information!
Awesome to watch , Craftsmen like this are a dying breed, hopefully some of us can learn and apply this skill. Cy I look forward to watching more of your craft.
to those who thumb down why dont you do what he did in half the time that he did lets remember he is 80 years old for gods sake give credit where its due he is a master smith a true craftsmen fantastic vidieo
I'm 68 years old and thought I was too old to start a little forging hobby in my back yard even tho I have longed to for over a year now as I'm now retired. This was inspirational, I'm getting off my ass and will start with a homemade forge, hammers, tongs and a home made anvil. I've been watching forging videos and feel like I'm gonna have a ball now. It took a guy 20 years older than me, to wake me up. Thank you very much sir.
Good luck pops
Robert Get after it CY
"The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago. The second best time is today."
That should be no problem :) look at alec steele...he is 19 years old and makes amazing damascus knifes. You can learn metalworking incredibly fast when you have the right teachers/ the right information sources
Robert Langley 68 Wow my grandpa Doesnt even know how the internet works
Having known Cy for a number of years, it is a beautiful thing to see his work shared with and admired by so many on this platform. He really is a rare breed of man today, an excellent craftsman, and a hell of a guy.
Amen!
I just recently met him as I began learning blacksmithing and he has been an amazing mentor to me as I started. If it was for him i would still be pushing with a hammer not swinging it.
Having a knife made by CY would be a treasure! That’s the kind of craftsmanship you don’t put a dollar amount on!
Apparently you can buy one for a certain dollar amount. Doesn't mean it isn't priceless and rare, but he sells them.
No matter the trade, watching a master at work is truly priceless
I don't know what I'm more impressed by, him being 80 years old, or him being 80 years old, and wearing a hoodie like a OG.
I think what I like the most is that it's a brand new knife, yet it looks like it was restored from the 50s. Beautiful!
The dislikes are from OSHA inspectors
the dislikes are from the knuckle heads that expect everything to be done in brand new 2.5 million dollar shops with squeaky clean floors.
@@honestjason7854 while I agree with you that it’s stupid to expect everything to be done in a clean shop with perfect equipment there are some good points about safety that shouldn’t be ignored but I guess once you get to be as old as cy you can pretty much do whatever you want in regards to safety
My 9 year old that shares my RUclips account was sitting on the bed watching my phone and I said "what ya watching more super heroes?" He replied "No I'm watching the hero of The Green Valley Forge." I instantly knew that he stumbled on some of the videos I watch and proudly sat with him and finished watching. Thank you Cy, Scott, and Nate you guys are really doing good for us all.
I'm still young, 13, and I love making knives and hearing stories like this I have watched this like ten times this is amazing
It is a true privilege to see Cy at work and true friendship I hear from your spirit. I have now watched this video 5 times.
The difference between an artist and a craftsman. Function first, then form to whatever degree time and inclination allow. No measuring, no jigs, no magnets or laser temperature sensors... Just a guy who knows how long, how wide, how thick, what angle, what color, how it should feel... I'll bet he even uses his sense of smell to tell him things about the work. A joy to watch. Thanks.
Craftsman are artists that makes things that are useful and beautiful. Artists only makes things that are beautiful but useless.
totally agree! great saying...I'm totally gonna use it!
Function first but why he made ugly knive? There are many good knivemakers who can join function and form, i see no reason to watch this guy anymore.
Your choice.
I wouldn't call the blade ugly. It's not beautiful, but it is functional and as a nice serious look about it. But the reason is simple... it's a three hour blade. If you want beauty, give the man a little more working time. lol
My six year old son and I just met Cy at the Fort Umpqua days in Elton. He is the real deal. Nice man and it's clear that everyone around him pays their respects. Thanks for the chat, Cy.
Thank you for using your video skills to share Cy's talents with us. Without people like you, most of us would never see a master applying his skills. Awesome video.
They don't make men like that in America no more.
@@oddish2253 Bullshit. Tons of them and a more by the day, thanks t0 videos like these I know a dozen Iraq/Afghanistan Veterans, my age, that are taking up steel work. Hell! There's even TV shows about it!
Cy is an amazing old fellow, and I know many old timers just like him. And I agree tat Americans turned into a bunch of crazy consumers that didn't make anything and bought cheap made in china crap. BUT, that's changed. Real Men are back!
Here's a man that's 80 years old, used to have a cattle business, and STILL runs a functional forge. I would certainly love to be able to do similarly at such an age.
Natural Talent, Years of Experience, & Just a plain joy for his craft... with no gloves too all in three hours to boot...Hell Yeah.
One B.A.M.F in my opinion.
Rock on Cy.
I know I'm late to this video but thank you, I learned so much in such a short amount of time.
I got hooked on the house you're building, I'm a contractor, and learned so much! Thank you! I'm also a beginner knife maker, and I stumble upon your blacksmithing videos and learning so much! THANK YOU SO MUCH! All the tricks and ways of doing things, and doing them with quality and without cutting corners! Just can't thank you enough, even at 57 years of age, you're helping me grow! Just can't say it enough! THANK YOU!
That was the best 25minute video I have watched all year. I have not watched any that is longer in many many months. Every second was worthwhile. Thanks.
I skipped over watching it yesterday because of the length. But it was suggested again today.
A real privilege to watch a fine craftsman at his passion and work. Thank you for this video.
A joy to watch. Considerer yourself a privileged guy, to be able to be in touch with a person like Cy and to absorb some of his knowledge. Please upload more videos of Mr. Cy, and tell him how we love to see him working!
I'm 26 years old, and seeing video's like this gives me more drive then anything else. I wish to become as great as this in time. Knife making has quickly become a passion of mine and I strive for perfection in everything I do. Thank you for showing us this video. Thank you for sharing his skill
Thank you so much for taking the time to set this all up and film it. I enjoy all your videos but this one takes the cake!!
j mk.
I am just speechless......I wish I could absorb Cy's 80 years of black smithing. This is a wonderful video!
I really love the end product, The knifes just look like they where made 50 years ago. they look like what a knife should look like
I'm 65 years old and always been creative, I do have some very unique attributes to my name of which I'm very proud...BUT how I wish I was blessed to have a teacher like this talented man....Thank you for the video and God Bless
Send this guy to compete on forged in fire!! He'll mop the floor with everyone there with time to spare!! A wonder to watch him work. As a knifemaker myself, I can only hope to be a tenth of what he is.
PaladinBlades only problem is he probably dont wanna go lmao i wouldnt ahaha
I was watching this video thinking the same thing. lol
PaladinBlades people thought Walter Sorrels would crush the competition, he failed on the second challenge. He did turn one of the most beautiful finished profiles after round one considering he got the hardest material to work with.
Hadi Farah I know I was rooting for him the whole time. But this guy has significantly more experience than a lot of people. Really rapid pace environment thoroughly. Might be tough on the guy.
The problem with the first part of that challenge is how hot it gets in the studio where they film the challenge, they turn off the AC and some of the contestants break down due to the heat. Just taking his health into consideration, it might not be good for him. Although I can't speak for him either on any account.
I honestly dream of finding a teacher to teach me the gift of creating such art.
I was watching this in amazement the whole time. Beautifully fluid work. The heat treatment along the edge was done more precisely than I have ever seen in such a short time.
Near the end I was curious of the balance as it looked really close. After seeing you spin it, I realized that all in all, that is one of the best working knives I have ever seen. I would be honored to used that knife...and probably for a LONG time
This is one of those vid's that you can watch and again and again. Excellent presentation depicting Cy's craftsmanship. I mean , Jeeez...3hours for a working blade !!
Not only is it fascinating to see such a vibrant 80 year old the story is fascinating as well. Well done.
Cy looks like a great guy and works harder than any machine in his shop! Well done Cy ! I enjoyed watching you work.
Could we get an interview on Cy?
I want to be 80 years old and still have the "strength" to keep doing stuff.
thank you for the video
Old bloke showing everyone how it's done, classic. Nice video and a hardy-looking knife. Good job guys!
I believe Cy’s hands has turned into Steel after doing this for so many years.
The fact that it spun perfectly... what craftsmanship.
This guy is amazing! I have to hand it out to him, he's got some talent
I'm 42 and just now starting my blade smithing journey! Bought a bunch of old Blacksmithing tools but anvils are so scarce I resorted to a cheap one from harbor freight but gonna get started either way! Love watching Mr Cy work!
Really impressive taking only 3 hours to fully complete the knife, amazing.
Astounding. Anyone who has and opportunity to spend time in that shop should DO IT! Thank you for sharing gentlemen!
Tough hands grow their own gloves.
Yes, but with open cuts in dry skin and constantly in direct contact with harmful chemicals. Chemicals such as but not limited to Epoxies. Wear gloves my friend.
TheBfair21 yes but no
@@TheBfair21 gloves are for pussies
Great saying. Ive always believed, Real men dont wear gloves. I never really had the luxury really but, i guess you just get used to it and not afraid to chip a nail like most guys do.
"Tough hands grow their own gloves" thank you well said, it takes one to know one.
@@TheSonOLiberty gloves are for people who like their hands
My daughter's mother bought me a knife from cy for when my daughter was born back in 2019, it's cable damascus with an Arizona iron wood hand, it's a hunter with false edge, it's beautiful, probably my most cherished material item I'll ever own, cy and his wife were amazing during the process of ordering and making it, wonderful people, I can never thank them enough
Amazing stuff! When I was in high school, I was in metal shop class and remember much of it. I had intended at that time to go into some kind of field where I can use my hands, but one thing and career led to another and now I find myself 52 years old and suddenly have an urge in my life to do things like this. I found Jimmy DiResta 2 or 3 years ago and it rekindled me and I started acquiring machines, grinders, drill presses, bandsaws and the like and seeing your videos and Cy inspire me further and I thank you for it!
traderjoes Awesome to hear man. Do what makes you happy. Youre in good company for learning what you need here on RUclips.
Your a lucky man to get to know a man like Cy. A man would just love to know what he has forgotten!
Wow that was just brilliant, would love to train with a craftsman like Cy. Thank you so much for bringing us this video, was a total pleasure seeing this master at work.
I LOVED watching this 80 years young man forge this knife. His talent and skill were fun to watch. Thanks for making this video and sharing it.
Video edited and narrated is as quality as the knife! Well done!
This video is so awesome to see a master forger at work , this is something you don't see much of anymore .
How does this video have ANY dislikes? 80 year old man that would work circles around any 20 man...I don’t get it
It's a universal ratio of good guys to assholes in the world.
Pretty sure the thumbs down are for the narrating not the blacksmithing...
cy's an incredible man. and the fact that he's 80 is just astonishing. but! for a damascus steal it is not a good pattern at all... although in 3 hours no one will be able to achieve a better job then cy, but again, damascus is all about the pattern
The narrator needs to shut up!
68CamaroRS/SS it's probably the 20 year olds disliking the video. Amazing talent and craftsmanship!
I love the attitude of the craftsmen featured on this channel. "Don't sit around. Just go do it." You captured that spirit perfectly in this video. Thanks for sharing.
Great documentary you and your family have produced. Thanks for sharing it!
Wow. What a true craftsman. Such a joy to watch this man work.
How the hell does this have 116 thumbs down?? Lot of people on here being internet badasses trying to put down this guy's craftsmanship. I've been blacksmithing for a little over a year now, not long at all, and I have probably made two dozen knives and another dozen axes and what not and I can tell you, what this guy did in 3 hours would have taken a lesser skilled smith 2 days, if not more. Cy worked with the efficiency of a man that knew exactly what needed to be done, when and how with no hemmhawing between steps... It really was amazing. What I would give to be able to spend a week learning from this devil dog... And I'd even bring a box of crayons for him to snack on (inside joke between Soldiers and Marines). Well done, Sir. Well done indeed.
143 dislikes for the false edge still having all of the grind lines or him pouring the ferric chloride on his hand.
Modern Bladesmith
thats what he mentions himself, it's because of the time. Probably not even watched more than two minutes
well lets see here. he doesn't etch the knife till near 20 minutes in, so.... your math is a bit off. thanks for calling me out on that. All i was trying to do was answer a question about some things that may have been the issue. For all we know it could have been the end too.
Why one of the older competitors on FiF was finished, sitting down and drinking coffee when everyone else was sweating away.
I didn't give a thumbs down but the narrator can be a bit annoying.
old school craftsman.....thank you sir for sharing,,your are a class act and a pleasure to behold.
So COOL!!! As my dad & grandpa would say "you can't beat a professional, and they make it look so easy". Note, my dad & grandpa came from the era where to be a professional meant to be a journeyman/master craftsman.
I know this is old and you may never see this comment but thank you for sharing this with us. Looking at guys like this and yourself work is such an honor to see.
Oh my god running a grinder with hoodie draw strings out, this man, my lord.
If you wouldn't say it to his face, keep it to yourself. Everyone and their sister has an opinion via keyboard.
@@MrJinxxxed13 I would.
@@Haneix1 And he'd probably tell you to go shit in your hat.
Mark James it is dangerous tho
@@MrJinxxxed13 No, he'd most likely chuckle and say I probably should and continue on.
I've clearly never met him, but I love this old man.....respect.
Would you kiss him?
Cy is a treasure and thank you for sharing
he is a master and watching him I pure joy.
I am very glad that you take the time to make these videos so that other people can see art in motion and they can be passed on for others to see.
Thank you and thank him.
I would have had 3 fingers left by the end of that project.
By the end of it? I lost two just watching it
I could watch Cy all day. Absolutely mesmorizing... And thanks for sharing this, and my thanks to your sons for their talented inputs to your video.
After reading many of the comments regarding Cy's lack of PPE and seemingly lack of any kind of safety procedures, I think it's safe to say that, at 80, Cy knows what he's doing. It is true that "safety" has come a long way in the past few decades and I'd venture to say that some of it is even warranted. But, if you watch closely, you will see that all that he does is a calculated risk. That is a result of wisdom gained from years of experience and a healthy respect for equipment and what they can do. But, I must say, the cannon freaked even me out! Keep forging!
The trouble with you "modern" people is " Big Brother" and everybody being scare of Litigation.
In our days (I'm 77yrs) We didn't worry about any of that.
You were/are, responsible for your own actions Good or bad. We all did what was necessary to finish any job we were CAPABLE of. learned over many yrs.
No Trade for this, and Trade for that just personal skills to do your job. and finish
it to a professional level.
You lot have NO idea. I used to operate Cranes and draglines.
My "doggie" always rode the hook. SAFELY. Nowadays you'd die.
Plus I was a diesel Tech. with city and guild trade papers.
We did the whole vehicle/machine . And KNEW how to do it .
Engine/transm.Axles Brakes steering.Hydraulics. ALL were the job.
Modern electronics are a bit different though.
We were competent through doing Whatever.
WIth nobody looking over our shoulders.
Cy is just a bloke that is good at his job. With "the touch".
Count his fingers. eyes. skin. All there???.
He's competent. And no different to what the rest of us were.
GOOD at his skills. and SAFE. in his own mind.
That's what counts.
You wouldn't believe what we used to "walk" around on the hook. with
Dragline/crane lifted up on toes of tracks.
Often with a loader./dozer holding the ballast blocks down behind you to stop it tipping.
We KNEW our machinery and what it (and us) was capable of. SAFELY..
Not what somebody sitting on his arse in an office said so.
Mack Carson Hats off to you and your generation! I'm 24, and was raised with a no nonsense attitude from my grandparents. You get in, get it done, and you are responsible for your own actions. It's amazing to see someone who is comfortable in their own skin, doing what they know and love.
I had the privilege of watching Nahum G. Hersom work in his personal forge (spare garage) for a few hours. He's the one who opened my eyes to the wonders of forging. He had very similar economy of movement, though his pieces leaned toward the decorative. At the end of my visit, he gave me a small cluster of berries he had forged himself, simply because I was the grand-daughter of his friend. They were so pretty, and I wish I knew where they went.
Anyway, it's a pleasure to watch and learn from those whom have mastered their craft! Thank you to those who allow their skills to be showcased like this! :)
Mack Carson why didn’t you guys spread that knowledge to the next generations?
Stunning craftsmanship.Cy is an excellent blacksmith.
Hey I just met this fella in Oakland, awesome guy...
He was beating on some hot steel.
This Blacksmith should be in Forged in Fire TV show. He would spank the competition without breaking a sweat. I just hope I can be as knowledgeable and skilled as this man some day.
Could you please add info on the Bull power hammer. Never seen one and I love how small it was, and it was a honour to be able to watch a master work , there should a be a hall of fame for guys like Cy so we can remember how it was done the right way , thanks.
hi randy the bull hammer is no longer made the later ones had all the tubing and valves up top made it better but this is real easy to control cy
Awesome craftsmanship! My hoodie string would've been yanked into that 2x72 by the end of the video 😂😂
To my eyes, the beauty of Cy's knives are in the "handmade-ness" of them. They're not factory made products that are all exact clones of each other, with no way to distinguish one from the next. Each of Cy's knives is an individual with no two exactly alike. There are small imperfections and flaws that makes each a one off. And that's the way it should be, because these are working knives for working men. None of that "collectible, display on the wall" stuff here. Just an honest knife made for honest work.
Agreed. But collectible too. The odds of one of these knives still being around in 100 years is alot greater than a Buck, CRKT, Benchmade, etc
Scott thanks for sharing Cy with us all!! What a Master and joy to watch. I can only imagine what it’s like hanging out with him in his shop and spending time talking. Thanks for sharing would love to see much more with him!!
it would be a great and very appreciative video request to put up the entire video as it was done live and available to listen to the conversations much could be learned I'm being able to watch and listen to the whole video for Cy is a true inspiration and blacksmith to our country awesome video thanks very much
I have probably watched this video 6-7 times now, it's just so good, please do more videos with Cy.
"He's an 80 year old man. This is unbelievable."
So... he's had almost three decades of experience, knows his tools, the metal, and what shapes he wants?
I don't want to diminish his accomplishment, because he's clearly a fantastic bladesmith. He's doing a fantastic job, and clearly knows his work. But it bothers me when people make it sound like being a master craftsman is something mystical, like hardly anyone could reach this level of experience. Go watch someone who has been a woodworker, a painter, a musician, or whatever craft, for 30 years, and you'll see something similar.
It's something better than mystical: it's determination, practice, and the willingness to spend years learning everything there is to know about a craft.
How old are you?
Well said sir! It's not unbelievable, it's the end product of many years honing an already well taught talent. We should applaud the long time spent perfecting the craft rather than saying oh golly gosh, how is he so good!
It's a testament to a guy who can still pull it off at an age where many people are losing their sight, dexterity, stamina, and simply can't work at their peak anymore. People who can become a master and stay a master even past the age where many start to lose their skills is impressive.
This guy is the definition of a man. And damn look at those hands... rough hands indeed. And free handing the grinding was impressive as hell.
Now that is a knife!
It's a 3 hour knife what did you expect.. It's a working knife and do remember what a knife is used for, its not used for showing of.
And it does look pretty fucking good to be completely honest, great work from this man.
@@100zoty7 Very picky, aren't we S_A?
Love watching Cy work and talk- watched all his videos multiple times and I hope there's more to watch soon!
I remember when my dad go out in -20 in do what he doing here
Absolute gem, always so enthralling watching a master in any craft apply their talents in ways that seem so simple yet take years to hone.
does he make videos or anything like that I'd love to watch him make more things
Beautiful words.... thanks for sharing this story
My sledge and hammer lay reclined,
My bellows, too, have lost their wind,
My fire's extinct, my forged decayed,
And in the dust my vise is laid;
My coal is spent, my iron gone,
My nails are driven-my work is done.
What a guy. Love this channel so much. Where can I buy one of CYs knifes?
agreed, where can we buy them?
Also interested in buying a real knife, from a real 'smith :)
Add another buyer to the list. Great video.
Add Another Buyer to the list
Add me too. Take my money! 💵💵
I enjoyed the video. I especially liked your narration and style. Very relaxed. Made me think we were sitting at the kitchen table talking over a good cup of coffee.
Has he ever thought of forged in fire? looks like an easy 10 grand
For real. He'd smoke those pansies.
Excellent work, both sides of the camera! Of course I liked. Thank you all, now we have a great memory of a wonderful man!
great video ! I'm looking for the music now... Who played that ?
A legend of blacksmithing to be sure. That particular bowie knife shape has to be my favorite of all time.
Isnt it amazing what a life of hard work does for a human body...you can do this(barring disabling accidents) at 80! He more than likely never touched drugs & ate earth grown, healthy food...look @ President Trump at 72!
My sincere compliments to this gentleman. Mr Cy Swan. Great skill and judgement. Thank you. Thanks also for the excellent video, narration and guitar playing. Best wishes, from Sussex, England.
Is it possible to buy his knives somewhere? There beautiful ☺️
Awesome. Looking forward to it. Appreciate your channel. Keep em coming!
awesome :D
@@georgeaustin7805 did you get a knife? Is he still working? Contact info???
seriously...how could 207 people downvote this video? what a beautiful video and person! ive watched it thrice. great video
Sad to say he is one of the last real men this generation will know
Yeah shut up
Real men are made, not born.
Brilliant craftsmanship !!! Many thanks for making the video and many thanks to Cy for sharing his craft with the world. Knife making is a truly beautiful craft.
That man's hands need the love of a good woman.
I’m new to the world of blacksmithing and have recently started making my own knives. This video is truly inspiring and has given me a lot of helpful information that I’ve been adding to my own process of knife making. Thanks for putting out such high quality information!
Welding gloves? You mean bitch mittens.
Awesome to watch , Craftsmen like this are a dying breed, hopefully some of us can learn and apply this skill. Cy I look forward to watching more of your craft.
when the old guy goes i hope his craft has been past on.
He teaches a small group of young men. They are really taking to it. It's awesome to see.
A true craftsman . It was a pleasure watching him work
to those who thumb down why dont you do what he did in half the time that he did lets remember he is 80 years old for gods sake give credit where its due he is a master smith a true craftsmen fantastic vidieo
I absolutely love that he twisted it before he set the welds completely... beautiful
amazing!!!!!! what i would give to go back in time and learn from these old men. God bless him.
This man is truly a humble master at his craft. Not only is his work beautiful, but you can tell he puts his heart and soul into it