Bob Coffield (@bob.coffield)

November 05, 2022

Welcome to this week's #benchmarkspotlight (formerly the #weldershowcase) - we had the opportunity to sit down with Bob from @bob.coffield and talk a little shop.

If you would like to be featured in our weekly spotlight (100% FREE) and have a chance at winning one of our Grinder Hoods please send us an email to leo.benchmarkabrasives@gmail.com to get you scheduled in an upcoming week. These spotlights are intended to highlight your skill, your business, and your tips and tricks. Most of all it's to have a little fun!

Enjoy and Grind On!

Name: Bob Coffield

Location: Bowling Green, OH

Socials: IG: @bob.coffield FB: Bob Coffield

Specialties: Steel Sculpture

Tell us about yourself - what inspired you to get into your trade? And how long?

I went to work as an Ironworker two weeks out of high school back in 1979. After working for 35 years in those Ohio winters I retired in 2015. My father was also an Ironworker.

What keeps you motivated throughout the day?
I like thinking outside of the box and creating new things.

What is your favorite shop tool and why?
My Lincoln 125hd ! I have used this machine for 11 years and it still welds like the first day, I also get great control with it.

What's your favorite piece that you've worked on?
This is my latest piece. It stands 5 feet tall.

If you could have any job as it relates to question 1 what would it be and what would you do with that?
I am now a full time artist and I love it. I’m inside where it’s warm and dry.

What BA product is your favorite and why?

Hands down it’s the flapper wheel. I prefer 80 grit. I have a 5 gallon bucket full of used wheels.

What BA product surprised you in terms of quality - what about it set it apart from the competition?

I’m always looking for the best tools for my art. The stripping wheel is the best thing out there for removing mill scale and tough paint. It won’t gouge the steel like a grinding wheel.

What tips and tricks do you have for us that might be different or eye opening for others to try with BA product?

There will come a day when you realize you forgot to order flapper wheels, save a few of your old used ones.

If there was one person you could collaborate with - who would it be and why?

I am an artist and an individual, I prefer to work alone.

Do you have any advice for the next generation that you wish you had when you first started?

Sometimes no is a blessing , tough it out and keep going. Respect your work and take pride in it.

What are your future plans for your shop?

I need to purchase a good band saw.

Thanks for sitting with us and sharing your story with the community - is there anything you'd like to add?

Thanks BA for giving me this opportunity to share my work with you.

A Note From Leo

Thanks for sharing your story with us, Bob! Saving some used wheels can definitely help you out in a pinch when running low but be sure that it's still safe to use. Cheers!