Drill pipe tool joint protector

A method of applying a protective shield to a drill pipe tool joint including positioning a centering hub on the end of the tool joint, positioning a bifurcated mold around the tool joint, the mold having a rearward end engaging the drill pipe and a forward end engaging the hub thereby centering the mold on the tool joint, the internal diameter of the mold being greater than the external diameter of the tool joint providing an annular cavity defining the preselected shape of the protective shield, injecting liquid plastic material through an opening in the mold to fill the annular cavity, allowing the material to solidify, and removing the mold hub. The invention also provides an apparatus for applying a protective shield to the tool joint of a drill pipe, including a hub with means for engaging the end of a drill pipe, the hub having a circular portion defining a positioning surface concentric with the drill pipe and a sectioned mold positionable around a tool joint, the rearward end of the mold engaging the pipe and the forward end engaging the hub so that the mold is concentrically positioned on the tool joint, the mold having an internal diameter larger than the external diameter of the tool joint providing a cavity of the desired configuration of the tool joint protector, and the mold having an opening therein for receiving liquid therethrough.