Ironworking has become a profession that is in demand. As the world would not possibly run out of its need for new structures and constructions, their demand would hardly recede. All the same, there are projections that the demand for ironworkers would rise in a higher percentage comparatively. So, any would tend to choose this profession. However, ironworking is a profession that gives you a lot of tools for its success. If not, you would not be able to excel in it. Our focus in this article is mainly on the most essential ironworker tools. Hope you will find out a lot about that.
Importance of Ironworker Tools
So, what is the importance of ironworker tools? Simply, they are important to make your work easy and efficient. They would also make your work much more accurate and methodical as well. Having the right tools help you save time. If you have the correct tools, you just do not have to worry much about the completion of your task.
Just assume that you have two ways of doing something. One way is hard and the other is easy. But both would eventually give the same result. What way would you choose? You would choose the easy way, right? The scenario of having and not having tools is similar. Using tools and equipment would do the same thing. But the difference is that the use of tools would do it in a better way. It would easily make your work easy, efficient, and effective.
There is hardly any construction work without tools. Tools are a major part of any construction work. They have such a strong bond with construction work. In other words, the success of a particular construction majorly depends on how good the tools you have used are. If you have not used the right and effective tools, you may not get a quality output. Just the same, if you use the right and effective tools, you would get a quality output for certain.
In terms of an ironworker, he or she would probably have a life-long relationship with ironworker tools and equipment. So, we surely do have to look into the essential tools of an ironworker.
Essential Ironworker Tools
This is where we need to place emphasis. In fact, ironworkers need a wide variety of tools. We can simply list them as follows.
- Hammers
- Pliers
- Wrenches
- Bull Pins and Holders
- Sleever Bars
- Wire Pulling Grips
- Clamps
- Welding Tools
- Tool Holders
- Bolt Bags
- Tool Tether
- Wire Reel
- Pocket Knife
- Level
- Flashlight
Of course, by reading what these tools are, you would get a basic idea about ironworker tools. But we are ready to tell you about them in detail. Hope you will learn a lot from our descriptive analyses.
1. Hammers
Hammers are pretty important for any ironworker. What are hammers for? Hammers indeed serve a number of purposes. There are many types of hammers as well. And we use different names to refer to them. So, various professionals need various types of hammers. However, we are going to consider the types of hammers an ironworker would need.
- Chipping Hammer
- Ball-Peen Hammer
Here are two basic types of hammers that we can talk about. So, let us get a much clearer understanding of them.
Chipping Hammer
Literally, a chipping hammer is a concrete breaker. But as an ironworker tool, ironworkers specifically need chipping hammers to remove slag after arc welding.
And of course, chipping hammers allow you to have a controlled chipping action. Hence, chipping hammers allow you to chip only a specific area. That would be very important for ironworking. Ironworkers can conveniently use it for the removal of slag.
The power source of a chipping hammer can vary from one to another. It might be powered electrically or hydraulically.
There is a holding handle at the back of a chipping hammer. Also, there is a shaft with which you can easily grip it. All the same, certain chipping hammers come with a second handle. They help the operator have control over its weight. And they allow the operator to direct it from different angles as well.
However, the manufacturers of these tools usually manufacture them with certain other features as well. In addition to the general design, they have heat shields and shock-absorbing handles.
So, maybe you have obtained a good understanding of the chipping hammer. Ironworkers should have them without question.
Welding Chipping Hammer with Coil Spring Handle, Cone and Vertical + 4 row Wire Brush. Shock-Dampening Steel Rust Removal
For an ironworker, this chipping hammer would be of great use. We think that with the use of this chipping hammer, you can surely perform all your tasks efficiently and effectively. One end of this chipping hammer is a flat chisel. And the other end is a conical chisel to get into tight spots. We can assure you that this is a durable one. Without encountering any issue, you can surely make use of this for a long period of time. Further, you will be getting a wire scratch brush in this set as well.
Lincoln Electric Industrial Chipping Hammer | Forge Hardended Steel | Shock Reducing Handle | K4022-1
Drop forged steel has been used in manufacturing this chipping hammer to improve strength, hardness, and toughness. To improve adaptability and enable use in small areas, the hammer includes both a flat and cone-style head. For increased comfort, the wide spiral handle disperses stress and pressure. And this has a multi-layer black powder coat that protects and prevents corrosion on the steel. “Exactly what is advertised. Great purchase for a great value!” This is what a buyer of this chipping hammer had to say about it on Amazon.
Ball-Peen Hammer
The next type of hammer we are going to look into is the ball-peen hammer. Sometimes, people might just call this ironworker tool a ball-peen. No offense! It also refers to the ball-peen hammer. And some call it a machinist’s hammer as well.
If we consider the formation of this hammer, we learn that it has two heads. It has one flat head and one rounded head. It is the rounded head that we refer to as the peen. So, literally, there are many peen hammers. There are diagonal-peen hammers, cross-peen hammers, chisel-peen hammers, and point-peen hammers. But this is different from each of them merely due to its rounded peen. This is the ball-peen hammer. And this has a hemispherical peen.
A ball-peen hammer is very useful for a number of tasks. As this has a peen, you can simply use it for peening or hardening a surface by striking. Also, you can make use of the peening surface for tasks such as rounding off edges of fasteners and metal pins.
Nevertheless, ironworkers need ball-peen hammers on numerous occasions. Mainly, they need these in order to make certain adjustments with metal and steel structures and frames.
Estwing Ball Peen Hammer – 12 oz Metalworking Tool with Forged Steel Construction & Shock Reduction Grip – E3-12BP
When it comes to ball peen hammers, we think that this is a good one for you to go for. This is pretty durable and versatile. Also, this has received pretty favorable customer reviews and ratings as well. So, we thought of recommending this ball-peen hammer to you.
Real Steel 0519 One Piece Framing Steel Forged Ball Pein Striking Hammers 24 oz
This ball-peen hammer is strong, versatile, and durable. And importantly, this is a lightweight tool as well. So, it is so easy for you to use this. Further, this ball-peen hammer consists of a rubber grip that is so comfortable and shock-reducing. Considering all these factors, we think that this would be a good ball-peen hammer for you to purchase. Most buyers of this product have rated well for features like durability, value for money, craftsmanship, lightness.
2. Pliers
In the main, ironworkers need pliers as ironworker tools. If we consider the use of a plier in general, it is to grip small objects or to bend wires. Anyway, there are many types of pliers available on the market. Each of those types serves various purposes. You need to choose the types of pliers that you need for ironworking if you are an ironworker or need to be an ironworker. Nonetheless, almost all other occupations that have at least the slightest resemblance to a field like ironworking needs pliers. Let it be electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, or such professionals, they all need pliers. But the specialty is it is not the same type of plier that they need. If we consider ironworkers, they would specifically need channel lock pliers.
What are channel lock pliers? This is a type of slip-joint plier. Anyway, you can call them different names. You may call them tongue-and-groove pliers, adjustable pliers, slippy pliers, or multi-grip pliers as well. Whatever you call them, they are pretty important for an ironworker. A wire-puller consists of two jaws. The lower jaw is movable to a number of positions. There is a tracking section under the upper jaw. You can slide the lower jaw through it. So, without changing the distance of the handles of the plier, you can simply adjust the plier to a number of sizes without question. As a matter of fact, these ironworker tools generally have long handles. That helps increase leverage.
Ironworkers can use them to turn and hold nuts and bolts. Further, they can use them to grip objects. Also, these are necessary to rotate objects without changing their positions.
Channellock 350S 9-Inch Ironworkers Plier with Spring, High carbon steel
This plier is constructed of highly polished high carbon drop-forged steel and has a heavy-duty construction. It features properly matched cutters that have been heat-treated to keep their sharpness. It has a unique cross-hatched tooth design and a coiled spring for positive jaw opening as well. Moreover, it features a pretty comfortable grip with which you would be able to do your work quite comfortably. Sturdiness, ergonomics, comfort, durability, and value for money are some features of this plier that have received positive ratings.
Klein Tools D201-7CST Ironworker Pliers, Spring Loaded Side Cutters for Rebar Cutting and Bending, 9-Inch Long
These have knurled jaws for a secure grip and a spring-loaded mechanism that allows them to self-open. When cutting wire, the unique handle tempering helps absorb the snap. The jaws of this plier open themselves thanks to the spring-loaded mechanism. Pliers feature handles that have been dipped in plastic. Smooth movement and minimal handle wobbling are ensured by the hot-riveted joint. And this has a precision-hardened plier head for durability on the job. Handles are dipped in plastic for comfort and identification. So, this is a pretty good product on an overall basis.
3. Wrenches
Next, let us have a look at wrenches, the next in our list of ironworker tools. What type of wrenches would you need? You would basically need an adjustable wrench in order to perform ironworking tasks.
An adjustable wrench is an open-ended tool. And it has a movable jaw. You can use it on different sizes of fastener heads. It is the advantage of using an adjustable wrench. You just cannot use a typical wrench on any size of the fastener head. But you can, when it comes to adjustable wrenches. That is why having adjustable wrenches is beneficial over having conventional wrenches.
Nevertheless, there are quite a few forms of adjustable spanners as well. Taper locking spanners need a hammer if you need to set the movable jaw to a particular size. Also, there are certain adjustable hammers that have the ability to automatically adjust to the size of a nut.
However, adjustable wrenches are available on the market as a toolset. Once you purchase the complete toolset, you can easily use it on any occasion invariably. Then, you have the tools to apply on any size of bolt. Further, you can make certain adjustments to the wrench itself as well.
Ironworkers usually have to deal with nuts and bolts. They have many jobs with metal or steel frames. So, having a wrench, especially an adjustable wrench is really a necessity. And it is far better to have a set of wrenches.
Although wrenches are small hand tools, not having these would cause you a lot of trouble when you get to work. These ease your work big time.
Cal Hawk BAWS 16″ Adjustable Iron Workers Spud Wrench
The manufacturers have used heat-treated chrome vanadium steel in making this and it is phosphate finished. Value for money and sturdiness are some key features of this product for which this has received positive ratings. It has received so many more positive reviews from its customers as well. Hence, we think that this would be a nice piece of equipment for an ironworker to make use of.
Titan 223 3-Piece Adjustable Construction Spud Wrench
Here is a 3-piece adjustable wrench set that we can recommend to you. The head sizes of these wrenches correspond to the nominal sizes of an 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch adjustable wrench. And this is forged from a corrosion-resistant chrome vanadium steel alloy with an industrial black finish. Also, their jaws are precision machined, and the worms are knurled for simple adjustment. Considering all these factors, this set is surely going to be a pretty good one for you.
4. Bull Pins and Holders
Now, we are going to consider bull pins and holders. In fact, this is a type of ironworker tool that we can never forget when considering an ironworker. These are that much necessary for the profession of ironworking.
We think that it is better to know about bull pins and holders separately. Well, bull pins are steel pins. You can use bull pins to align holes in order to install bolts or rivets. And yes, holders or bull pin holders to be much more specific, are to hold bull pins as the name itself suggests.
In terms of bull pins, it is much better to have bull pins that have a considerably large striking surface. Then, it would become easier to strike. And the possibility for the pin to slip also reduces. Moreover, durability is another concern with regard to bull pins. You must be able to use bull pins for a very long period of time. But you would not have to worry about it that much. Almost all bull pins are made of alloy steel. So, there is durability as well as strength. Yes, strength is also pretty much important for a bull pin. Bull pins must definitely be strong enough for an ironworker to work with. The strategy the ironworkers use to make them strong is heat-treating. Heat-treated bull pins are generally strong enough as an ironworker tool.
And there is a tether hole in bull pins as well. This is another simple but fantastic feature that bull pins have. It helps you have all the bull pins be in connection with one another. But more than that, it is the safety it provides that matters. If an ironworker is working at a height, bull pins would not fall.
Klein Tools 5416T Tool Bag, Bull-Pin and Bolt Pouch, No. 4 Canvas with Tunnel Connection, 5 x 10 x 9-Inch
In the workplace, having long-lasting storage options is essential. This bull-pin and bolt bag is made of durable canvas, with a double layer of canvas on the bottom where it is required the most. For extra durability, it is sewn and riveted. Also, this has a tunnel loop belt connection. For factors like durability, craftsmanship, and sturdiness, this has received excellent feedback and reviews from its customers.
Klein Tools 3255 Broad-Head Bull Pin Made of Forged, Heat-Treaded Steel With Black Finish, 1-1/4-Inch x 13.75-Inch – -P
This bull pin has been forged and heat-treated to enhance efficiency by offering a bigger striking surface. When aligning holes, its head design decreases the possibility of the pin sliding from the fingers. And its use of an angled head and smooth radii blending increases strength and reduces the risk of chipping. Also, these have squared-off shoulders forged below the head to offer a surface for using a wrench to release jammed bull pins. Considering all these, we think that this would be ideal for an ironworker.
5. Sleever Bars
Let us move into the next ironworker tool, sleever bars. This is actually a steel alloy bar. You can use it to pry on beams in order to put them in place. Basically, an ironworker would need sleeve bars when wrenches are not quite enough to perform a certain task. And of course, this is a tool that ironworkers use over all other professions. There are particular tools that are common to many professions. But sleever bars are not like that. This is primarily one of the main ironworker tools.
However, although this is a simple tool, it is immensely useful for an ironworker. If you do not have sleever bars, it would take a lot of your labor as well as time for certain jobs. But anyway, sleever bars can ease your work on a major key.
OTC (7168) 30″ Jimmy Bar
We think that this sleever bar is an ideal option for an ironworker to go for. These are multi-purpose tools that can be used for everything from prying to aligning. They are flat on one end and tapered to a point on the other. And of course, they become pretty useful for ironworkers. In length, this sleever bar is 30 inches. And this is heat-treated. Because of that, there is hardly any chance of breaking or bending. So, we think that this is a good one for you.
6. Wire Pulling Grips
Okay, next on our list is wire pulling grips, one of the important types of ironworker tools. You may also call these cable pulling grips or simply wire-pullers. To be precise, this is not just a tool. There are various types of wire pulling grips available on the market. But generally, what all these types of wire pulling grips do is pulling wires tightly. Here are some accessories that you must know.
- Chicago Grips
- Haven Grips
- Parallel Jaw Grips
- Wire Mesh Grips
- Hoists
Let us now take a look at each of them in detail. Hope you will be able to get a clear idea.
Chicago Grips
Yes, this is a type of basic wire-pullers. In the main, you can use Chicago grips to pull wires or cables in order to let them maintain tension temporarily. Of course, you do not have to keep these permanently. This is a temporary solution. These are in use mostly in the construction and communication sectors. And of course, ironworkers play a major role in those who use Chicago grips.
Klein Tools 1613-30 Chicago Grip for Bare Wire
This has a lightweight and cost-effective grip. And this works within 0.08 to 0.20-Inch (2.0 to 5.1 mm) cable diameter range. And this has a 3-Inch jaw length. For this Chicago grip, the max safe load is 1500 pounds or 680 kg. To avoid slippage, you need to clean the jaw region and check the grip before each usage. And before pulling on/near electrified wires, you have to ground, insulate, or isolate grasp. Also, never exceed the rated capacity. Always use the right size and kind of grip for the job. Grips should only be used for temporary anchoring and should not be utilized for permanent anchorage. If you follow these steps righty, there is no doubt that you can use these for a long time.
Haven Grips
It is about haven grips now. Just like Chicago grips, haven grips are also used to create tension in cables. Anyway, these are relatively a little hard to handle. Yet, they provide a brilliant grip. There is no doubt about that at all. You can use haven grips to temporarily hold a wire until you go for a permanent fixture. Ironworkers need these on numerous occasions.
Klein Tools 1625-20 Grip, Haven’s Grip Wire Pulling Tool for Wire Rope to 0.75-Inch, Maximum Load 8000-Pound
When a light, compact grip is needed and conductor damage is not a concern, a haven grip is what you should use. And here is a perfect haven grip for ironworkers to make use of. The max safe load of this haven grip is 8000 pounds. Drop-forged, heat-treated steel is used to provide long-term endurance. Because of that, we can assure you that you can make use of this one for a long time without any issue.
Parallel Jaw Grips
This is another ironworker tool that we can talk about with regard to wire-pullers. The purpose of this is also the same. It is to hold wires tightly until you permanently fix them. Like most other wire pulling grips, this also has a round jaw. It helps provide maximum contact with the wire. Also, it prevents the wire from deforming. And they have a large opening in the handle. It allows you to use it on a variety of winches, tackle blocks, and hooks on hoists. Just the same, there is a locking handle as well. It keeps the jaw open while the grip is attached to the cable.
Klein Tools KT4502 Parallel Jaw Grip 4502 Series with Hot Latch
If you are looking for good parallel jaw grips to purchase, we think that this is what you should go with. The versatile grip holds a wider range of ACSR cable sizes reducing the number of grips that you would need. And the round jaw holds a 0.18 to 0.60-Inch diameter cable range. And there is a large opening in the handle that can accommodate a wide variety of hooks on hoists, winches, and tackle blocks. The max safe load of this parallel jaw grip is 5000 pounds. And we think that this is suitable for an ironworker.
Wire Mesh Grips
Let us consider wire mesh grips. By appearance, wire mesh grips are a little different from other grips. However, there are several types of wire mesh grips as well. There are strain relief grips, support grips, and pulling grips. Perhaps, ironworkers might need all those types. But that depends on the situation.
Anyway, you can use a wire pulling grip to pull cables or wires through walls. While the pulling grip does the job, it is the wire mesh that holds the cable while it is being pulled. Nevertheless, it is important to purchase a wire mesh that does not allow twisting. If it twists, it can turn out to be an issue.
Leviton L8510 Flexible Eye, Closed Mesh, Single Weave, Junior Duty, Pulling Wire Mesh Grip Cable Diameter, Range, Standard Length
Here is our suggestion in terms of wire mesh grips. These are designed to offer the strength, dependability, and gripping power needed for today’s challenging wire management applications. They are made to disperse stress over a broad area so that the wire, rope, tubing, or fiber optic cable to which they are attached can be firmly held, pulled, or supported. And the grips do not cause cable damage since the tension is consistent throughout the length of the grip. So, we think that this would be an excellent choice.
Hoists
This is another tool that ironworkers can use to temporarily hold wires or cables tightly. There are manual hoists as well as power hoists. Of course, you would probably need to have power hoists for large-scale operations.
Champion Power Equipment-18890 Automatic Electric Hoist with Remote Control – Yellow, 440/880-lb.
This has an 850-watt electric motor with a heavy-duty 5.5-ft. tethered remote control. So, you would not have to worry about its power. And the dual line of operation is possible with this piece of equipment. Of course, this is safe and durable. We think that this would be useful for ironworkers big time.
7. Clamps
There are different types of clamps. Bench clamps, bar clamps, drill press clamps, flooring clamps, grip clamps, and C or G clamps are some of them. And all these types of clamps are in use in various professions as well. Such professions include woodworking and plumbing. And of course, welding plays the most significant role. So, it is basically the ironworkers who have to use clamps on the highest scale above all other professions.
Manufacturers often manufacture these using steel or cast iron. If we consider the basic use of clamps, it is to hold a piece of work securely in place. Hence, there is no doubt at all about ironworkers needing clamps in their jobs maybe more than any other professional. It is basically because they have a lot of welding to do. So, they naturally do have the need to keep their work securely usually.
IRWIN QUICK-GRIP Clamps, One-Handed, Mini Bar, 6-Inch, 4-Pack (1964758)
Four 6″ one-handed mini bar clamps are included in the set. And these can keep a tight grip on your workpiece to avoid scratches and scuffs. To prevent flexing and bending, the resin is reinforced with hardened steel bars. In fact, it os perfect for clamping tiny workpieces and working in tight spaces. So, we think that this would be a good one for you to make use of, for your ironworking tasks.
8. Welding Tools
This article on ironworker tools would indeed be incomplete without a description of welding tools. Welding is a type of job that has a major connection with ironworkers. To start with, let us look into the types of welding tools that an ironworker would have to use.
- Wire Brush
- Soldering Iron
- Welding Gloves
- Auto-darkening Welding Helmet
- Welding Jacket
- Ear Protector
- Soapstones
You would be anxious to know more about each of them. Let us tell you.
Wire Brush
This is one of the most common and simplest ironworker tools that ironworkers use. As its name itself says, it is indeed a brush. But it usually has steel wire. So, all the wires of a wire brush are bound.
So, what is the purpose of using a wire brush? It is basically for cleaning rust and removing paint. Also, you can use a wire brush to clean various surfaces. That makes you get a good conductive area for you to attach electrical connections pretty easily if you need to. This is a common application when it comes to the conductors of car batteries and their posts.
If you are going to clean a stainless steel surface, it is better to use a plain stainless steel wire brush. There are plain carbon steel wire brushes as well. But a plain carbon steel wire brush can cause the problem of contaminating the stainless steel of the surface. Also, it may also cause rust spots to appear. Anyway, the use of brass bristle wire brushes is mainly when you have to work in flammable environments. However, for ironworkers, a stainless steel wire brush would be fine. Ironworkers may generally have to use wire brushes to clean rust, welding slag, or corrosion.
Nevertheless, the durability of a tool of this sort is very important. Most of the time, you may face issues like wire breakages. So, having equipment of high caliber is necessarily important. Of course, long life is a key factor when it comes to hand tools like this. It would be a waste of money having to purchase them from time to time frequently.
Wire Brush Set for Cleaning 4-Pack Multi Purpose Beechwood Handle Medium & Small, Brass & Stainless Steel Wire Scratch Brush for Rust, Paint, Welding, Heavy & Light Household Cleaning
This set of wire brushes is really good as you can choose the right size for any type of task that you would need to perform. Cleaning with medium-sized wire brushes is ideal for large surfaces while cleaning with little brushes is ideal for those annoying tight spots. And the high-quality handle this has is cut to the correct size and ergonomically contoured to accommodate your hands. Gripping these brushes is made easier by the smoothened chamfered edges. With the right tools, even the most difficult tasks may be made tolerable. So, we think that this is a tool that you should definitely have for yourself as one of the ironworker tools.
Soldering Iron
How can an ironworker perform a welding task without a soldering iron? This is indeed a must-have piece of equipment. Of course, this is the hand tool that you have to use for soldering.
Soldering iron has a metal tip. It can produce heat. Of course, it has an insulated handle as well. What it does is melt the solder. Consequently, it allows you to join two workpieces together. That is the sole theory of soldering.
How does it do it? It is indeed pretty simple. An electric current passes through a resistive element. So, it heats up. That is how the soldering ironworks. Knowing that would provide you no help to engage in ironworking. But still, we just thought of telling you how it works.
Furthermore, there are different types of soldering irons as well. Simple iron, temperature-controlled iron, cordless iron, soldering tweezers, soldering station, and hot knife are some of them. However, for general scale soldering tasks, you can make use of a simple soldering iron. That can do the work for ironworkers as an ironworker tool unarguably. But if you have more complex work, it is better to go for an advanced soldering iron tool kit.
Anbes Soldering Iron Kit Electronics, 60W Adjustable Temperature Welding Tool, 5pcs Soldering Tips, Desoldering Pump, Soldering Iron Stand, Tweezers
When using a soldering iron, a standard dual spring soldering iron holder with a sponge is a highly handy piece of equipment. It is safer than any other thin soldering stand because it has a secure base. And this soldering iron with 5 interchangeable tips and heat and impact-resistant screw thread construction that prevents the iron head from falling. Temperature ranges from 200°C to 450°C and may be adjusted. Quickly heats up and performs admirably. “Wow! This is a sharp set for the price, it includes all sorts of goodies.” This is how a buyer of this product has reviewed it on Amazon.
Welding Gloves
Basically, it is important to have welding gloves whenever you are soldering. As you know, it causes a lot of heat. And it can possibly do some serious damage to your hands if you do not take the right precautions. What are such precautions? Your hands would be safe if you wear welding gloves. It is that simple.
Anyway, the fabric of the gloves must be fire-resistant. That is the most important aspect with regard to welding gloves. For that, the gloves must be thicker than a general pair of gloves. Having a good fabric for the gloves naturally makes them last longer. In fact, durability is something that you must consider in terms of tools of this sort. If not, you would have to waste your money for no reason.
All the same, it is a lot better if the welding gloves are oil-resistant and cut-resistant. You never know what sort of problems that you would have to face when engaging in ironworking.
Another key factor that is important but we do not think much is comfort. If you do not feel comfortable wearing your welding gloves, that is totally disgusting. Hence, you must also consider whether it has a comfortable cotton lining or something of that sort inside the welding gloves.
WZQH 16 Inches,932℉,Leather Forge Welding Gloves, with Kevlar Stitching Heat/Fire Resistant,Mitts for BBQ,Oven,Grill,Fireplace,Tig,Mig,Baking,Furnace,Stove,Pot Holder,Animal Handling Glove.Black-Gray
If you are looking for a pair of welding gloves, we can straightforwardly recommend this pair of welding gloves. The gloves are constructed of heat-resistant, wear-resistant, puncture-resistant, cut-resistant, and oil-resistant 1.2mm thick and soft shoulder split genuine cowhide leather. The palm of the hand is reinforced with double leather stitching and high-strength sewing, making it difficult to slip off. Even under pretty harsh conditions, this pair of gloves will do its job of protecting your hands. So, you need not worry about anything with regard to protecting your hands here.
RAPICCA 16 Inches,932℉, Leather Forge/Mig/Stick Welding Gloves Heat/Fire Resistant, Mitts for Oven/Grill/Fireplace/Furnace/Stove/Pot Holder/Tig Welder/Mig/BBQ/Animal handling glove with 16 inches Extra Long Sleeve–Blue
This is another pair of gloves that we can recommend to you. This has a long sleeve to protect your forearm. And this is super comfortable. Of course, this is durable as well. For an ironworker, in order to safeguard your arms, this pair of gloves would surely be pretty useful. Hence, we think that this is a product that you should buy. This has received positive ratings for features such as comfort, heat resistance, and durability. So, there is actually no doubt about how good this is as one of the ironworker tools.
Auto-darkening Welding Helmet
Sometime before, it could have been about welding helmets we should have talked about. But today, it is all about auto-darkening helmets. In general terms, you can use a welding helmet to protect your eyes, face, and neck from the heat a soldering task can cause. Yet, it is not merely the heat. There are many more adverse effects it can create such as ultraviolet light, infrared light, and sparks.
In the main, you may have to use welding helmets when it comes to arc welding. It is indeed necessary to protect yourself from the adverse effects the welding process can create. Your safety and health must be more important than your tasks.
Auto-darkening helmets are relatively new to the world. But today, many ironworkers use auto-darkening helmets. As the name of this ironworker tool explains, the shield of these helmets automatically darkens when it exposes to bright light. If you are using a normal welding helmet, you may have to pull the cover down whenever you have to start a soldering task. As a matter of fact, you do not have to make it a burden. You have to use an auto-darkening helmet. It will do the job for you.
DEKOPRO Welding Helmet Solar Powered Auto Darkening Hood with Adjustable Shade Range 4/9-13 for Mig Tig Arc Welder Mask (Blue Eagle)
Here is a suggestion from us for you to go for a welding helmet. The auto-darkening filter of this welding helmet changes from light to dark in 1/25000 seconds. Safety-wise, this is a wise choice. And this features adaptability for varied surroundings and work durations is provided via sensitivity and delay options. All the same, it does not fail in providing you with a comfortable and clear view. This is ideal for a variety of tasks. And surely, an ironworker can make use of this as one of the ironworker tools.
Antra True Color Wide Shade Range 4/5-13 Auto Darkening Welding Helmet AH6-260-6218 Engineered for TIG MIG/MAG MMA Plasma Grinding, Solar-Lithium Dual Power, 6+1 Extra Lens Covers
Here is another suggestion from us. There is no doubt, this provides you superior level protection to the level that you need it. Also, you cannot complain about this helmet’s comfort. It is pretty comfortable to keep wearing it as well. Further, this is a lightweight tool. That is a major factor that makes this a comfortable one. And there is no issue with its performance and reliability. So, we recommend this to you for you to add it to your set of ironworker tools.
Welding Jacket
Here is another safety tool that welders have to use. It is the welding jacket. The purpose of using a welding jacket is to protect your body from possible threats. They are sparks, heat, and adverse radiation just like we told you before. So, this type of jacket must provide you with additional protection for sure.
And of course, there are certain specialties a welding jacket must have in particular. What are they? They must be of durable leather. That can easily prevent the heat from reaching the ironworker. A common problem when it comes to cotton jackets is that they can tear with friction. But you cannot let that happen for a welding jacket. It must be capable of withstanding such matters. In fact, a leather welding jacket can do the job for you.
Further, your arms must be free to move when you wear a jacket like this. If you cannot move your hands while you are wearing a welding jacket, it is indeed a problem. The ability of free movement should also be there. And it is much better if you can have some additional storage space in the welding jacket as well.
Welding Jacket Leather Apron Heavy-Duty Work Anti-scald Flame Resistant Coat L
This is wear-resistant, anti-scald, and flame-resistant. And this is made of a large amount of heavy-duty cowhide split leather and securely formed. This has a wide coverage. It covers from your neck to your upper knee. And this has an ergonomic design as well. For factors like value for money, comfort, comfort, and stretch, this has received excellent recommendations from its customers.
Titicaca FR Shirt Flame Resistant Men’s Cotton 6.5oz Lightweight Uniform Shirt
This is our next suggestion. This is 100 percent cotton. Hence, this is comfortable. There is no doubt about that. And this is a product that has followed all the necessary standards. Because of that, we think that this would be a perfect choice for you. Many buyers of this product have also reviewed it on Amazon saying that it works great and it is up to the expectation.
Ear Protector
Ear protectors are not actually essential. But these are necessary when you are working in a noisy environment. Ironworkers surely do have to work in noisy environments all the time. When welding, it is of course noisy. It is noisy even when an ironworker is engaging in some outside tasks. Hence, having ear protectors is indeed good for you. Continuous exposure to loud noises can cause hearing problems.
3M WorkTunes Connect Hearing Protector with Bluetooth Technology, 24 dB NRR, Ear protection for Mowing, Snowblowing, Construction, WorkShops
If you need a good ear protector, this is something that we can recommend to you. So, you can avoid all the loud noises that you would have to have to hear in your workplace. Instead of that, you can listen to something that can make you feel good. This features Bluetooth technology. And it allows you to stream music from your phone or any other Bluetooth-enabled device effortlessly. Its high-fidelity speakers provide premium sound quality. So, this surely allows a premium experience for you. Also, this has integrated microphones. And that allows you to make calls without removing this. With all these features, you would surely like it. We think that this would be ideal for you.
Soapstones
Well, ironworkers may have to use soap stones as ironworker tools mainly to make temporary markings. They are a lot similar to the markings that you can make using chalk. But there is a difference. It is an advantage more than a difference. You would not lose the markings due to high temperatures. That is pretty important when it comes to a welder. A welder may need to have something to create marks that do not fade away with high temperatures when soldering. And of course, soapstones are the ideal choice.
These are a form of soft rock. In fact, there are many uses of soapstones. So, many professionals use soap stones for various purposes. Anyway, ironworkers have to use soap stones quite frequently mainly for welding purposes.
SEPTLS100FL5 – Soapstones
As we told you, it is pretty important for ironworkers to have soapstones. And here is a product that we recommend to you. Its length is 5 inches. Its height is ½ inches. And its diameter is 3/16 inches. Further, its width is ½ inches. “Great product and something that a welder should not work without.” This is what a review about this product tells. So, we think that this would be a great one for you to choose to be one of your ironworker tools
9. Tool Holders
In fact, ironworkers can use tool holders to access the ironworker tools easily. You can have the tools that you need on a particular occasion put in a tool holder and keep it near you. Of course, there are different types of tool holders available on the market. You can use them to keep your wrenches or bull pins. Then, you can keep the tool holder near you. It would indeed be easy for you as you would not be messed up with your tools.
Tool Pouch, 4 Pocket Multi Tool Holder with Plier Holder, Ruler Holder, Screwdriver Holder Klein Tools 5118C, Brown
For a professional like an ironworker, tool holders are of immense importance. And here is our recommendation. Its leather is riveted. That ensures this tool holder’s endurance. Most of the customers of this product are so happy with it. They have reviewed and rated well on Amazon.
10. Bolt Bags
These are literally bags. Hence, they are capable of carrying different types of materials for you. But the specialty of bolt bags is that you can use them to carry a number of tools to your worksite. Manufacturers make bolt bags out of a high-quality canvas. So, you would not have to bother about the longevity and endurance of bolt bags. Also, there are certain types of bolt bags that allow you to have fixing points to tool tethers as well.
KwikSafety (Charlotte, NC) TORNADO COMBO | 1 D-Ring Full Body Safety Harness, 6 ft Lanyard, Tool Lanyard, ANSI OSHA PPE Fall Protection Arrest Restraint Equipment Universal Construction Roofing Bucket
When it comes to tool tethers, it is pretty important to have quality ones. It is better for them to be as durable as possible. That makes you use them for a long time without any problem. This product that we have recommended here is actually a set of items. It consists of a body safety harness, a safety lanyard, and a tool lanyard. So, if you go for this, you can fulfill all those requirements from this single product. Because of that, we think that this all-in-one product would be ideal for you.
11. Tool Tether
A tether tool is basically a cord that attaches something to a fixed point to make it stable. Ironworkers have to work at heights frequently. So, they have to use their tools in very high places. What happens if such a tool accidentally slips and falls down? Someone underneath may surely get a good blow. That is for sure. Anyway, if the particular ironworker has used a tether and fixed the particular tool, then such a pitiful incident would never occur. That is why ironworkers need to have tool tethers. However, it is not merely ironworkers who can make use of tool tethers. Other field workers who have to work at heights also can use tool tethers. Then, they can prevent such cases.
KwikSafety (Charlotte, NC) TORNADO COMBO | 1 D-Ring Full Body Safety Harness, 6 ft Lanyard, Tool Lanyard, ANSI OSHA PPE Fall Protection Arrest Restraint Equipment Universal Construction Roofing Bucket
When it comes to tool tethers, it is pretty important to have quality ones. It is better for them to be as durable as possible. That makes you use them for a long time without any problem. This product that we have recommended here is actually a set of items. It consists of a body safety harness, a safety lanyard, and a tool lanyard. So, if you go for this, you can fulfill all those requirements from this single product. Because of that, we think that this all-in-one product would be ideal for you to make one of your ironworker tools.
12. Wire Reel
A wire reel or a cord reel is necessary for an ironworker to get the power supply to a high place. There is no need to keep on repeating that ironworkers have to work at heights. Thus, whenever they need a power supply, there must be a way to get it. This is the ideal solution. Ironworkers can use a wire reel.
Klein Tools 27400 Tiewire Reel, Lightweight Aluminum, Left Handed and Right Handed with Rewind Knob
The smooth aluminum alloy reel is rugged and lightweight, with steel wear components. Pre-coiled wire can be fed smoothly, effortlessly, and fast, saving time and reducing wire waste. For factors like durability, sturdiness, and value for money, many customers of this product have rated positively on Amazon.
13. Pocket Knife
There is hardly any field job that does not require a pocket knife. Maybe a pocket knife does not have a direct connection to the tools that an ironworker has to use for fundamental ironworker tasks. Yet, it is pretty important for an ironworker to have a pocket knife.
Ironworkers also may have to cut certain small things. You would not need a chain saw for such tasks. Having a small hand tool is sufficient. And no doubt, the pocket knife is surely the tool an ironworker needs to have.
Usually, the blade of pocket knives is made of stainless steel. And of course, that has to be so. If not, there would be problems regarding corrosion. And it is better if there is an insulated handle. Most of the time, ironworkers would not have to use a pocket knife to cut wires that conduct electricity. But who knows? There can be instances. No harm is done by using a pocket knife with an insulated handle either. So, ironworkers need to have a pocket knife as a primary necessity.
Smith & Wesson Extreme Ops SWA24S 7.1in S.S. Folding Knife with 3.1in Serrated Clip Point Blade and Aluminum Handle for Outdoor, Tactical, Survival and EDC
Of course, we told you how important it is for an ironworker to have a pocket knife. This is a durable one. So, you can use this for a long time without any issue for sure. And this is a secure and dependable tool. We think that this would be of great help for your ironworking tasks if you make this one of your ironworker tools. That is why we thought of recommending this to you.
14. Level
Some may call this a spirit level, water level, or bubble level. That is not a problem. What matters is the use of levels. Well, basically, you can use a level to check whether a surface or something is perfectly horizontal or vertical. In fact, many other professionals also have to use levels for their jobs. And there is no doubt, ironworkers also do have to use it.
Ironworkers have to work on different steel or metal structures. They have to fix them right. In fact, they have to check how horizontal or vertical something is. If not, what they intend to do would not turn out to be successful at all. The smooth run of the world solely depends on its delicate balance. Once that balance collapses, the whole world runs into a crisis. That is pretty much similar to setting up steel structures in the profession of ironworking. Perfect symmetry must be there. Otherwise, it would be an incomplete task.
CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, 9-Inch (CMHT82390)CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, 9-Inch (CMHT82390)
In terms of levels, this is a tool that we can recommend to you. This torpedo level can provide maximum accuracy of 0.0005-inch/ ft. Over-molded rubber end caps are there in this torpedo level for non-marring leveling and shock resistance. And this has shock-absorbing end caps. Consequently, this helps you to use this tool for a long time without any issue. Many buyers of this tool have reviewed it positively on Amazon. So, we think that this would be a good one for you to go for to include in your set of ironworker tools.
15. Flashlight
We are not going to tell you that ironworkers have to work underground and they need to have flashlights whenever they work. Of course, there is hardly an occasion where an ironworker would have to engage in such work. Anyway, there can be instances that you would have to work at night. If it is an urgent project, you would indeed have to make use of a flashlight to get you a clear view of what you are working with.
Pelican 2750C LED Headlamp (Photo Luminescent Body)
As you would probably know, with a flashlight, you can make a lot of your work pretty easy. And this is an even better one as this is a headlamp. So, there would be a good source of illumination wherever you are looking. The customers of this headlamp are so happy with this. They have admired this on Amazon’s reviews as well. So, we think that this would be ideal for you as well to have as one of your ironworker tools.
Conclusion
We discussed pretty much ironworker tools and their uses. Anyway, all types of fieldwork have tools for each of them. There are carpentry tools, masonry tools, electrician tools, plumbing tools, and so on. What we have to tell at last is to purchase the right ironworker tools and make use of them effectively. Safe Ironworking!
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