I am away from a camera now and will not have access to one for a few weeks, but we can still talk about some things…
Brace bending is the style where you leverage a piece against your body as a fulcrum and use the combination of your hands and and body to complete the bend. This style of bending is used for two reasons
1) The piece is too large to short bend it-Long bars, wrenches, and other pieces
2) The shape of the object-Horse shoes or chain
This style of bending is a total integretation of your body. You will use every bit of power you can must.
Today I want to discuse the process of bending a large spike, such as a 12 inch pole barn spike. I have been working with these all week and very much enjoy it.
To start the are a few things you will need. Hand pads or gloves are important, because steel is very sharp. A small rag or towel helps to cushion the area wher eyou will leverage the steel and eye protection is highly recommended for all long bars. I also recommend you were some blue jeans.
To start, go get some long spikes. I go to tractor Supply and buy the 12″ stainless spikes, they are 3/8 of an inch thick. This is good if you have above average upper body strength and good pain tolerance. if you do not, then get something thinner, maybe 1/4 to start.
Wrap the ends with something strong, i only use cordura. I have seen Dennis Rogers tear up his hands in his DVDs and have no interest in that, so use Cordura or Leather. Once you wrap the ends of the steel put a rubber band on it to secure the wrap.
grab the ends of the spike and place it at your hip bone. stick the front leg out, as if you are going to do a lunge. Brace up your whole body and get very tight. Slam the steel down with everything you have and press IN and DOWN.
This is the initial bend. It should be about 30 to 45 degrees. if you think you can get more out of it go again.
Once it is bannana shaped, it is time to move to the second stage. There are two ways, but i only use one way personally. grab each end, put your feet close together and semi-squat. Squeeze your legs together and crush down on the nail. This motion is EXTREMELY POWERFUL. It is also very painful. That will pass.
Once it is down to a few inches, you can chest crush it or brace it against your hip and bend it down.
I understand this may be confusing with out video or pics, i will post them as soon as possible.