Bronze Spear Casting Class

The socketed bronze spearhead is one of the most elegant objects produced in the ancient world — and one of the most technically demanding to cast well. In this class you will learn the full sand casting process for a large socketed spearhead, from mould preparation through to the pour and all the finishing work that follows.

Bronze spear casting requires careful mould design to ensure the long thin blade fills correctly without cold shuts or porosity. You will learn the specific techniques needed to cast elongated forms successfully — skills applicable to many other casting projects. The finished spearhead is fitted to an ash shaft and is ready for display or re-enactment use.

What's Included

• Bronze alloy
• Sand casting materials
• Ash shaft and fitting
• All finishing tools
• Full safety equipment
• Free refreshments all day

What to Bring

• Packed lunch
• Sturdy boots
• Old natural-fibre clothing

The Day Step by Step

1. Spearhead design and mould planning
2. Sand mould preparation — gating and risers
3. Furnace setup and bronze melting
4. The pour
5. Knockout, inspection and cleaning
6. Grinding and filing the blade faces
7. Polishing the blade
8. Fitting to the ash shaft