Swaging

Swaging (/ˈsweɪdʒ/, pronunciation note below) is a forging process in which the dimensions of an item are altered using dies into which the item is forced. Swaging is usually a cold working process; however, it is sometimes done as a hot working process.

The term swage can apply to the process of swaging (verb), or to a die or tool used for swaging (noun).

Blacksmithing

The term "swage" comes from the Old French term souage, meaning "decorative groove" or "ornamental moulding". Swages were originally tools of the blacksmith trade, used for forming metal into various shapes that were too intricate to make with a hammer alone. Swages called "fullers" are often used in bladesmithing for making grooves in swords and knives. Swage blocks are anvil-like dies with various shapes forged into them, which are also used for forming metal. Blacksmithing swages are typically tools with faces of various shapes, sometimes with handles for holding or pegs for attaching to an anvil, and often have a flat head for striking with a hammer. Swages are used for shaping the metal in various ways, to increase its beauty or its fit for a desired purpose.