WoW WotLK Guide - Changes to Blacksmithing

WoW WotLK Guide - Changes to Blacksmithing Wrath of the Lich King, World of Warcraft's latest expansion pack, has brought with it many new additions and alterations, most of which would be classed as upgrades (and improvements, in my opinion). Changes to Blacksmithing is one such 'upgrade'.

Blacksmithing is one of the professions that has seen significant changes (read "improvements"), having always been a somewhat pricy profession, never quite living up to its potential (again, my opinion). One of the most effective money-making schemes has been to make chains for holding your weapon on through a Disarm; however, you are unable to exercise this option prior to Level 70 which, without a decent WoW WotLK Guide, could take some considerable time. With the release of Blizzard's latest expansion, Wrath of the Lich King, changes to Blacksmithing are afoot, including the targeting of the concept of adding craftable epics and PvP gear that people will actually want to buy. This will make it possible for Blacksmiths to earn gold with their improved craft in new ways, and also take up all new paths with their profession masteries. Blacksmithing as a profession will now benefit from the new socketing of items, including craftable items, that Blacksmiths will now be able to perform. Blacksmiths will only be able to sell belts that they have socketed, and may only do sockets on weapons and gear through trade windows. This, effectively, will be adding a trade and service aspect to the profession; something that has been conspicuous in its absence up until now. In addition to the above changes to Blacksmithing, Blacksmiths will also be able to socket their own gloves and bracers with bonuses that are better than most enchants out there. Blacksmiths will also now be able to craft epic BoE items and sell them at auction and, while they may not be quite on par with raid quality items, they will be the easiest epic items to achieve in the game, and will still reward decent profits for most blacksmiths, because the majority of players still don't go on raids to get those high end items. In a nutshell, Blacksmithing can only benefit from the numerous changes and, while they may not be enough to significantly boost the Blacksmith's gold making potential, they certainly add new levels and depth (and interest) to the profession, that were not there previously. If you are already a Blacksmith (or are thinking about being one), it may be well worth your time to continue leveling towards 450 for the benefits of these new options that were not previously available. WoW WotLK Guide - Changes to Blacksmithing