(Part 2) Best protective safety workwear according to redditors

Absolutely do not buy this apron for smithing. The features you want in a blacksmith apron are:

Leather, leather, leather...anything else will simply not last and may, as in the case of this apron, be dangerous.

Because leather, even split cowhide, is pretty heavy, do not buy an apron where the upper support goes around your neck. You want an over the shoulders strap system, not around the neck like this one. I am sorry to say that the apron offered to you by BeastmanCaravan is also an around the neck support system.

In the U.S. you can buy a split cowhide (suede) apron in a knee length with shoulder straps for under $40.00. A smooth leather apron will cost at least three times that, often more. The thickness of a leather apron will also vary quite a bit by manufacturer, and sometimes even within the offerings from a single manufacturer. For that reason alone it is best to buy one where you can handle the apron first. It is also sometimes difficult to tell from the ad on amazon exactly what kind of support system an apron uses. This one, for instance, does not show the strap system:

http://www.amazon.com/3836-Apron-Leather-24X36Dark-Brown/dp/B003GMDJ2A/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1459023581&sr=8-4&keywords=leather+apron

However, if you read the description it says:

cotton crossed back straps for comfort.

which means it is shoulder supported, not neck supported.

You have welding supply places all over England. Go shopping.

Get your multipass for $16.99

Order in 3 hours and it can be on your doorstep tomorrow...

This monstrous thing weighs like an ounce and a half: https://www.amazon.com/Ironwear-1271-Booney-adjustable-Orange/dp/B00HGIA7T8/ref=sr_1_13?keywords=high+vis+orange+hat&qid=1570220977&sr=8-13

I wore it and attractive young Instagrammers made fun of me.

Or only venture out wearing a hazmat suit.

I too was in your position just a few years back. Here is a list of my recommendations for the entry-level versions of the items you listed above as well as some other things I like to have handy.

• Hammer, $15; This hammer is cheap, it has a peen (for drawing out metal) and is... well... a hammer.
  
• Anvil, $60; This anvil is definitely a beginner anvil but it is what I used for two years until I upgraded. You can pick it up in most all Harbor Freight stores as I assume there is one in every state.
  
• Tongs, $15; This set of pliers will help with quite a few things the main being to hold the metal once heated. I know that these are not what one thinks about when they think "blacksmithing tongs" but I have used similar ones for the entire time I have forged due to their versatility.
  
• Apron, $25; I personally have not used this exact apron before but it is cheap and though not beautiful, it is functional and trust me, spending $25 now on this may very well save you 100 times that in hospital bills.
  
• Gloves, $20; These are the gloves I use at my forge and I can say that there is little to no loss of dexterity and they provide ample heat resistance.
  
• Forge; This is the one piece that deters people the most as it is the most expensive piece. The type of forge you get depends on your budget and your ability/aptitude for DIY work. Here are my recommendations for three different budget levels.
  

• High-End Budget; 2 Burner Blacksmith Forge $489.95
  
• Mid-Level Budget; 1 Burner Blacksmith Forge $350
  
• Entry-Level Budget; This Video will take you through the process of making a Coffee Can Forge. They are suitable for the entry level smith and can, if done right, be made for less than $150.
  
  Now for my personal suggestions;
  
  

• Grinder, $55; This Handy-Dandy little grinder is what I use for most all of my knife smithing. It is pretty cheap and a great entry-level piece of equipment.
  
• Metal, $5-$20; When you are starting off, I highly advise to start with the tool steel available at Home Depot and/or Harbor Freight because they are very cheap and you can stand to mess up without wasting expensive metal.
  
• This Book is what I began learning with and it comes packed with a number of starter projects to help you get started on learning basic skills as well as acting as a reference later on down the line.
  
  I hope this list helps and I wish you well on your journey in beginning Bladesmithing!
  
  
• O

I suspect that one or more people in your area are calling the police to report a "suspicious person". You're riding around neigborhoods late at night, and they think you're try to case houses to see who's out of town so you can rob the houses. You don't think you look suspicious, but the locals don't know the difference. The police don't actually care, but they're trying to keep the locals happy. If this is really bothering you, the solution is to be the least suspicious you can be. Go out of your way to be seen. Put lights on the front and back of your bike, and wear a hi-vis vest. If you're clearly trying to be seen, then you're clearly not trying to hide.

You do not need pants. I just use jeans, and the the apron over a jacket. Here is what I use:

Get one of these for sure.
http://www.amazon.com/3M-Face-piece-Reusable-Respirator-Assembly/dp/B000FTEDMM/ref=pd_bxgy_hi_img_y
+
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00328IAO0/ref=oh_details_o03_s02_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Gloves - I bought a few pairs. You will use them up at first, till you learn what not to hold on to :) http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000MRQAJG/ref=oh_details_o08_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Jacket has some options. Sleeves and an apron:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002AKIRIA/ref=oh_details_o06_s00_i01?ie=UTF8&psc=1
+
http://www.amazon.com/Welding-Sleeves-Leather-Elastic-Resistant/dp/B002GI9A3C/ref=pd_sim_hi_48

or a plain jacket, but look around. This price on amazon seems high. You might be able to find something like this locally for less.
http://www.amazon.com/Hobart-770488-Leather-Welding-Jacket/dp/B002VECL3W/ref=pd_sim_hi_42

And I use this :http://www.amazon.com/Miller-Genuine-Leather-Indura-Welding/dp/B003IL2RCM/ref=sr_1_10?s=hi&ie=UTF8&qid=1382001569&sr=1-10&keywords=miller+jacket

Maybe one of those orange reflective vests that road workers wear? LOL

Found one on amazon its only five bucks!

https://www.amazon.com/41113-Industrial-Safety-Reflective-Stripes/dp/B000IDSZ1U/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1521904949&sr=8-4&keywords=orange+vest

10 yellow vests @ $2.20 each.

Get you a good coat, good thermal base layers, good boots, and good gloves. I got all of mine from patagonia's worn wear program. Those are all worth investing in. Keep cheaper versions of these in your car, or keep your good stuff in a bag and always bring it to your car with you. I've gotten stuck in weird rainstorms and windy times without my outdoor gear, and it sucks. Depending on if you're on a trail, it can be dangerous.

Get a hat with ear flaps, or get earmuffs, and get a good scarf. What works best for me is a tight infinity scarf so that it's close to the skin. Sometimes I wear two and pull one up over my nose--you can do this with one, but I've found that sometimes I'm cozier with two :)

For reflective stuff, LED things are great. I also use this kind of reflective wear when I'm walking. It's cheap and effective.

If you get snow or ice, these things are lifesavers. Dogs that don't normally bug you when they pull could easily pull you to the ground if they pull at the wrong time when you're on an especially slick spot. Obviously, that's a bad time, but especially if you're young it's easy to forget that it's dangerous, particularly in winter--and again, especially on trails where you'll be in a bad situation if you get hurt.

Layering is your best friend as others have said. imo winter boots aren't worth it, so long as you have a good pair of all-season boots that are waterproof. At that point, you just need two good pairs of socks and you'll be set.

CHAPSTICK and lotion!! Put it in all your pockets. People forget about this, but winter is super drying on your skin and I've experienced lip bleeding from super chapped lips. Also, get lotion with SPF. You still need sunscreen in winter.

It's also worth noting that you should be prepared for winter car emergencies if you drive to your walks, too. Keep a blanket, food, water, flashlight, and extra warm clothes in there. Make sure you have an ice scraper, snow shovel, flares (especially important in winter), and jumper cables. They even make self jump starters if you go to especially rural areas or don't have local contacts that can help.

Also, get your car checked out before winter hits full force. Some mechanics will do free system checks when you get your tires rotated or get your winter tires.

P.S. Rechargeable hand warmers exist. They rock, and many can also work as portable phone chargers.

I worked with a guy that had one kind of like this in orange. It seemed to do him well and he didn't look like a complete toolbag wearing it.

Thanks for the response. I checked them out but its mostly just rebranded Condor Brand bags they upcharge 150%-200% for. The only reason I know that is because I was looking at the Condor Rip-Away EMT Bag, Ebay, & MyMedic. Actually I think MyMedic is offering the smaller of the two bags for more. Nice site though, thanks for the suggestion! I wish I knew who's rebranded bag they are using for their main FirstAidKit.

Edit: So I found the Main back an hour later. Its a BlackHawk Brand bag called a S.T.O.M.P. II. I'm thinking of getting it on ebay for cheaper. Thanks! This might have worked out well after all. I'm going to go look at a few reviews. Cheers.

that would be a DuPont Tyvek disposable coverall suit found here

Unless you need a vest for water bottles or something (phones/keys) just get one of these:

https://www.amazon.com/Arich-Adjustable-Security-Visibility-Reflective/dp/B06XRTGJ2L/ref=asc_df_B06XRTGJ2L/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312210011890&hvpos=1o4&hvnetw=g&hvrand=14975587168582474093&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=1014708&hvtargid=aud-801381245258:pla-569056026371&psc=1

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And even that can have a key attached to the straps easy enough (done it)

Seems like even a quality one is still a bargain at 1/10th the price of OP.

http://www.amazon.com/Hobart-770548-Leather-Welding-Apron/dp/B002AKIRIA/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1367515958&sr=8-3&keywords=Leather+apron

ice vest.

https://www.amazon.com/FlexiFreeze-Ice-Vest/dp/B01MPZLWLZ

Got a reflective vest. For a "unisex" item it runs a bit snug despite not being fitted. 11 dollars, with a zip pocket.

Reflective Vest for Running or Cycling (Women and Men, with Pocket, Gear for Jogging, Biking, Motorcycle, Walking)(Medium) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X6J18BC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apap_lU2sKKV98UEDo

If local laws permit, the 319 bridge over the river looks like a safer bet than the 153 due to its much wider shoulder. I didn't see any signs on the onramp prohibiting bikes on the highway, but check with the Department of Highways (or whatever its called in Tennessee) to be sure.

I suggest picking up front and rear lights ($25-30 should get you a basic set), and some sort of high visibility vest (like this or this). If you're riding after dark, some reflective tape on the bike would make you stand out in headlights.

Good luck, and stay safe.

I'd be tempted to pick up a box of these bad boys and pretend I'm going to space in the worst shuttle ever.

$4 High visibility hat for hiking in the fall https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00HGIA7T8/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Yeah I’m from California I weld in 115 all day long in leather. Get yourself a Black Stallion welding apron with sleeves. It has an open back in it to let it breathe and you can also remove the apron part and just wear the sleeves if necessary. They run about $50-$60.

Black Stallion Welding Apron

Allow me to blow your mind.

I love my Revco Black Stallion Cape and Sleeves. Depending on what type of welding I'm doing it saves me going through shirts. It's enough cover to protect me stick welding but cool enough, being open in the back, to keep me from burning up in warm weather. I spent around $80 on my first one and got a spare when they recently dropped to ~$40. I just wear denim jeans, I don't know anybody that wears anything special for pants.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000IDSZ1U/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1487864083&sr=1-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65

Anytime appropriate. And only $5.50

Can confirm living in a desert, as wind rushes over your skin it pulls moisture away, plus sun exposure. A good way to combat heat is to wear a jacket and soak a cooling vest like this in cold water. The jacket helps keep the vest wet while the moist vest keeps you cool. I have this vest and once squeezed out will not dampen your clothes underneath.

I'm sorry that happened to you. It's terrible. We're here for you. The most important thing to do is to be as kind as possible to yourself. Do you usually do something related to construction for work?

From what I understand, you have cranial and chest hyperhidrosis. If you’re looking for treatments, there was a discussion in the group with dermatologists a little while back. If you plan on doing construction again, maybe take a look at some of the items below to keep your body a little cooler.

Having a Camelback may make it easier to consume water throughout the day to keep the body cool. I could only find 3L versions.

Cooling Helmet Liner

Cooling Pad for Hard Helmets

Hard Helmet with fan

Neck Sun Shield

Cooling Jacket

Cooling Vest

get a cooling vest- they sell them on amazon- some can be worn under your uniform and the cells are rechargeable by dunking in cool water. https://www.amazon.com/NHI-Cooling-Vest-Ventilation-Adjustable/dp/B07BNCJ1SJ/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?keywords=phase+change+cooling+vest&qid=1557846007&s=gateway&sr=8-2-spons&psc=1

http://www.amazon.com/3836-Apron-Leather-24X36Dark-Brown/dp/B003GMDJ2A/ref=pd_cp_hi_2

Okay I have been seeing those rise in popularity even where I'm from but even 'nothing' is okay as long as you're not an idiot.

Why not get a cheap flashing led to hold or clip on? Or even just a caution vest

I used to run with one of those for a bit. Or a head lamp.

ive seem some furs use ice vests.

https://www.amazon.com/FlexiFreeze-Ice-Vest/dp/B01MPZLWLZ

Well, there's always this solution.

JKSafety 9 Pockets Class 2 High... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01LRVX4AS?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I bought a reflective vest in case I ever needed to change a tire at night. I also have a set of triangles, road flares, heavy duty latex gloves, high visibility rain ponchos, etc. in the trunk for the same reason.

GripGlo Reflective Safety Vest, Bright Neon Color with 2 Inch Reflective Strips - Orange Trim - Zipper Front
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00N39F7TE/

AMMEX - GWON46100-BX - Nitrile Gloves - Gloveworks - Disposable, Powder Free, 8 mil, Large, Orange (Box of 100)
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MGSGRIS/

Thanks for the heads up. After work tomorrow I will try to hit the home depots around me.

Don't really need them, but I refuse to buy batteries by themselves and I could use a few more 2ah batteries for use with my DFJ201ZL Cordless Fan Jacket and my CJ200ZM Heated Jacket

I've got one, it's not a daily use tool carrier, but there's times when I do use it. I got made fun of when I first showed up with it, but after that nobody cared.

I got mine on Amazon I think, it was a different brand and black, they made a newer version that was orange and accommodated a harness

$150

Perfect for Halloween

Child sizes not available



Edit: Here's the link if you want to order one. Such a deal! Only $2,000 marked down from $3,000. Credit to /u/katharsys2009 for link

i got this for $120... http://www.homedepot.com/p/Blue-Max-20-in-52cc-Gas-Chainsaw-53543/206762432

it's only 20", so it limits my boards width to maybe 12-16"... but i plan on cutting the bark and sapwood, so it should be like 12-16" of usable wood.

and i got this safety gear for $65
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CLL6Z3C

and then a MKII alaskan mill for i think $75 on craigslist

so about $250 for everything

Any recommendation on chaps? I was recently given a chainsaw but don’t plan on using it until I buy some.

I was planning on buying something like this but am a complete novice (and clearly you’re not)

Forester OEM Arborist Forestry Professional Cutter's Combo Kit Chaps Helmet FORCHG https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00CLL6Z3C

TechNiche International Adult HyperKewl Cooling Sport Vest, X-Large, Royal Blue https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004VMF2NS/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_loBQzbA7TPWW2

It's smaller than many of the suggestions but I don't have my kit designed to deal with more that FIRST aid. The idea being that I've got enough minor supplies (band aids etc) to take care of a few incidents and then enough of the larger or more substantial things to deal with a single event. I used a list from the red cross that I found online to populate the pack if memory serves. It also only includes things I've been trained to use (typical civilian CPR and First Aid training).

I really like the bag itself and if I grab it to head out on foot with my everyday backpack (5.11 rush12) I can utilize the webbing system to combine the two.

www.amazon.com/dp/B00AEM35U6

I just watched the major seller of tyvek suits on amazon go through half his available inventory in less than 24 hours.....

This guy had over 1200 suits in various sizes listed yesterday afternoon

http://www.amazon.com/DuPont-Protective-Coverall-Disposable-Elastic/dp/B00821YWPI/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1412115729&sr=8-5&keywords=tyvek+suit

Obviously that doesnt mean nationwide shortage. He probably has tons of inventory not listed but it is interesting to watch the prepper panic buys in progress.