Forge your own railroad spike knife in a 4-hour intermediate class
4 hours
Up to 4 people
Safety gear, Water, Coolers
Learn intermediate blacksmithing techniques as you forge a railroad spike knife with guidance from a skilled blacksmith. You’ll work hands-on through shaping, profiling, beveling, and sharpening to finish with a steel creation you made yourself.
Ages 8+ only. This is an intermediate, more physical class and requires slightly above beginner hammer skills. Closed-toe shoes and cotton clothing are required; no polyester or other synthetic materials.
Cancel at least 72 hours (3 days) before the class start time for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 72 hours before start are not eligible for a refund. No-shows are not eligible for a refund. Refunds for eligible cancellations are processed within 3 business days.
Wear closed-toe shoes and cotton clothing (cotton T-shirt and cotton pants/jeans). Do not wear polyester or other synthetic materials.
This is an intermediate-level class. You need slightly above beginner baseline hammer skills, and it is more physical than the other project—be prepared to work hard.
Maui Forge supplies ear plugs, safety glasses, water, ice, and coolers.
Tommy Russo runs an exceptional blacksmithing experience that consistently earns rave reviews from complete beginners and families alike. His teaching style stands out as remarkably patient and encouraging, with multiple parents noting how he helped nervous kids overcome their fears of sparks and heat within minutes. Guests typically create letter openers or dog hooks starting from raw steel, and the classes blend hands-on forging with fascinating historical context about the craft. What makes this memorable is how Tommy's genuine passion shines through every lesson. He takes time to explain proper hammer technique, answer questions about equipment and history, and adapt projects when guests want to add personal touches. The forge provides a refreshingly unique alternative to typical tourist activities, and visitors love taking home functional pieces they actually made themselves. Several reviewers mention displaying their creations proudly or gifting them to family, which speaks to both the quality of instruction and the meaningfulness of the experience. It's especially popular for couples, families with teens, and anyone curious about traditional crafts.
Awesome experience!! Our family loved learning and working the metal from a steel blank to an adorable dog hook.
Alycia Patencio
December 13, 2025
Awesome experience!! Our family loved learning and working the metal from a steel blank to an adorable dog hook.
Alycia Patencio
December 13, 2025