The blacksmith items are a fantastic boost to the early game, but I find myself use the preservation badge almost exclusively, followed by the mace when the need arises.
I used the sword and shield heaps when i had few preps, but now they sit quite useless. Their size, especially in comparison to the pres badge, makes them hard to stomach taking into battle.
Can there be late game option to improve these preps into small items?
This would make them a little more viable in late game after they have served their (very valuable) purpose early on.