How can you check the temp of a forge without using a pyrometer?

[Alan]

I've found myself in situations where I didn't have a pyrometer handy, and I had to think outside the box. What’s your favorite way to gauge forge temp on the spot? Do you have any clever tricks or classic methods that you swear by?

 

[hammertime]

Had to rely on my instincts more than once.
The color of the metal and its movement in the forge gives me all the info I need.
If it bends easily and flows well, I’m usually right on the mark

 

[anvilabuser]

Without a pyrometer I rely on what's called the ‘sparky test.’ If a small piece of steel sparks when I dip it in, I can tell I'm hitting the right temp range. It's an old-school method, but it never fails me.

 

[crucibleking]

I've gotten a bit creative with judging temperature now I look at the metal's color.
If it’s a bright cherry red, I'm all set. When it’s darker, I know it’s not hot enough. It's a simple trick that really works.

 

[Anvilenvy]

I check the metal's color in a dark corner. When it looks like the color of a rising sun, it’s usually good for non-critical work.

 

[HotIrony]

I rely on the magnet test. If it sticks, then it’s too cold for forging. It's a straightforward method, no tools required and it hasn't steered me wrong so far.

 

[blistersmith]

I take a small piece of scrap steel and heat it alongside my main workpiece. If it moves easily, then my main steel is at the right temp.