Some tools to drool over.  Image (c) 1998 Jock Dempsey WELCOME to the
Virtual Hammer-In!

This page is open to ALL for the purpose of advancing blacksmithing.
Please read the RULES before posting a message. NOTE: This IS NOT the Guru page!

WHY THREE FORUMS? Well, this is YOUR blacksmithing forum to use for whatever you wish within the rules stated above. It is different than the Slack-Tub Pub because the messages are permanently posted and archived.

Our chat, the (Slack-Tub Pub), is immediate but the record of it temporary. Do not post permanent messages there. We refresh the "log" every couple days now and your message will be lost.

The Guru's Den is where I and several others try to answer ALL your questions to us.

Jock Dempsey -- guru at anvilfire.com - Monday, 07/27/98 & 03/01/99



Yesterday I got a weird suggestion from my much-loved girlfriend. She wanted me to take up knitting instead of smiting weird huh

I got it when she was helping me move my equipment. Due to the frequent thefts and burglaries, 18 new locks this year alone! I have started to tote everything between home and shop.
All I leave there is the forge, all 8mm steel/angle iron and larger than the door. A work bench whose legs are 4 3by10” (75 by 250mm) planks driven 3’ (1m) into the ground (kind of hard to move in one piece) with a cheap 5” (125mm) wise mounted on it.

I won’t give a full list but the general idea.
The equipment consists of:
Some hammers, only ;) 10-12different depending on various factors in weights from 2oz- 4# (50g-2kg) (out of them 2 are clear favourites one to be retired soon:-( ), a drill brace and drills from 1.5-12mm (~1/16-1/2”), some taps and dies for treads 4-12mm, a few tongs (8-10), 6-7 files, kerosene blowtorch, 2 twisting wrenches (the larger one 30” long),2 tinsnips, a bench shear (6mm capacity) ,2 16”(400mm)C clamps,2 10” (250mm)wise grips, 12# (6kg) sledgehammer, set hammer, flattie, swages, assorted chisels about12-15 different, ~100# (52kg) anvil with basic anvil tools (hardy, hold-down, bending fork, veining tools, beak, swages, fullers…) sadly I have had my swage block stolen:-( . And assorted small stuff all in their places in the bike cart. I almost forgot the fan, a 1-hp petrol engine and a 10”fan in a rather simple set-up replacing my bellows (it is outside the shop so it is no fire hazard)

We put it all in the bike cart and haul it home (its only a few miles between home and shop)
Do you understand what she means??? ;-) lol

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Tuesday, 08/31/99 11:02:57 GMT


I'm selling my entire collection of antique forges, anvils, and blacksmithing tools by auction October 2-3. I also have a big selection of early woodworking and metalshop tools. Email for the complete list. Thanks. Terry

Terry Rilkoff -- rilkoff at sunshinecable.com - Wednesday, 09/01/99 02:16:20 GMT


Just got back from a 9 day driveabout. Wasn't looking for B.S. tools, but saw an Armitage anvil with the horn broken off at an antique shop in Bristol, Va. ( phone # 540 466 6895 ) if anyone is interested. It would have been about 125 lbs before the horn was lost.

grandpa -- darylmeier at aol.com - Wednesday, 09/01/99 02:30:17 GMT


OErjan, I know know what you mean. I have been given it some thought about collecting feather pillows.

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Wednesday, 09/01/99 04:02:15 GMT


OErjan:
I keep threatening to take up stamp collecting. It seems so quiet and sedentary. I joke with my friends that all of my hobbies are hot, heavy, dirty and dangerous. I once contemplated glass blowing, but after some study discovered that it was hot, heavy, dirty, dangerous and FRAGILE! I just couldn't handle the fragile part.

Is there any chance of moving the forge closer to your home? I just visited a friend, Eric Thing, while I was working out in Tucson last week. He's put together a very nice shop in what used to be his back porch, and the quality of the armor he's making is excellent. (Next time I'm out there I'll get some pictures of his jigs, stakes and set-ups.) His biggest problem is sound control with his neighbors, and he's using mostly gas for fuel to avoid upsetting them with the fragrant smoke of a coal forge too often. If you're in an apartment building, is there another structure nearby? Not that bicycling all your gear back and forth isn't healthy and builds endurance, but it must be dificult in the winter. I'd suggest fortifying the forge, but, by your previous posts, you seem to have the most persistant bunch of vandals since the Vandals. Look around, there might be someplace closer and/or more secure.

Terry:
Where are you located? Ohio? California? New Zealand? Great Britain? St. Mary's County, Maryland? (Needless to say, my fondest hope.)

Cloudy and cool on the banks of the Potomac.

Visit your National Parks: www.nps.gov

Go Viking: www.wam.umd.edu/~eowyn/Longship/ (cASE sENSITIVE)

Bruce Blackistone (Atli) -- bruce_blackistone at nps.gov - Wednesday, 09/01/99 12:20:12 GMT


Atli: I would like a Forge closer but it is not possible I'm afraid (legal considerations) :-(.
on the other hand soon I will have 100# less, as I will have a 450# anvil in my shop
It will be very firmly attached by 12 1,5’long ¾” diameter heat treated spring steel spikes with lots of barbs (to grip better) to a 3’ high (sunk in the floor and concrete poured around) by 2’diameter hard-wood stump
that would make it rather permanent ( I hope).
And believe me 100# is a lot when moved by muscle power.
Good smithing to you all:-)

OErjan -- Pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Wednesday, 09/01/99 13:28:26 GMT


Jade:

I responded to you via e-mail using the e-mail address in your posting (jwalker at ufl.edu) but got e-mail back from a Jim Walker. I had sent you a list of needed tools and sources.

Phil -- rosche at dilbert.scra.org - Thursday, 09/02/99 13:40:45 GMT


I'll be at the ScanFest in northern New Jersey this Sunday with the faering boat. No smithing, just viking around. Check out the event at www.ScanFest.org .

Bruce Blackistone (Atli) -- bruce_blackistone at nps.gov - Friday, 09/03/99 19:16:58 GMT


Are there any summer courses in blacksmithing?

Glen Unwin -- g_unwin at hotmail.com - Saturday, 09/04/99 00:06:39 GMT


hi, a friend here has a patent pending,1902 triphammer,made by Champion Blower & Foundry Co. and he'd like to find
out a bit about it.
How big a motor for a 20lb hammer, etc....

dr_d -- dan_m at efn.org - Saturday, 09/04/99 00:19:21 GMT


dr_d, As far as I know Champion didn't make a 20Lb. hammer. The smallest hammer they make was a 30Lber. It ran on a 1hp motor.

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Saturday, 09/04/99 04:50:44 GMT


Hello, I've just started to take blacksmithng workshops whenever I can. I've been collecting tools and books on the subject for years. Does anybody know where I can find a copy of "Blacksmith and Farrier Tools at the Shelburne Museum" ? Thank You, John Nash

John Nash -- Trkrjnash at aol.com - Saturday, 09/04/99 20:24:07 GMT


To whoever sent the reply to my question about the Shelburne Tool book, I lost the server as I was getting your reply and it's now lost. Could you please resend it ? Thanks.

John Nash -- Trkrjnash at aol.com - Saturday, 09/04/99 22:05:13 GMT


I am a fledgling smith taking the COSIRA course at the blacksmith shop in Coloma CA. It is at the Gold Discovery State Park.

For my home shop I have purchased a Phoenix Forge with a Champion #1 Blower as part of of the forge. It is large and in excellent shape but I need some assistance on positioning the leather belt that drives the flywheel and history.

I thank anyone that can offer me information or direction.

Dennis (Stoneyoaks)

Dennis -- dcliford at jps - Saturday, 09/04/99 23:35:33 GMT


I am a fledgling smith taking the COSIRA course at the blacksmith shop in Coloma CA. It is at the Gold Discovery State Park.

For my home shop I have purchased a Phoenix Forge with a Champion #1 Blower as part of of the forge. It is large and in excellent shape but I need some assistance on positioning the leather belt that drives the flywheel and history.

I thank anyone that can offer me information or direction.

Dennis (Stoneyoaks)

Dennis -- dcliford at jps - Saturday, 09/04/99 23:36:14 GMT


Anybody replying to my previous message may note that I left part of my address off.

Sorry about that.

Stoneyoaks

Dennis -- dcliford at jps.net - Saturday, 09/04/99 23:39:45 GMT


Everybody:
This is my fledgling post -- I've been lurking on a few blacksmithing sites for weeks, and figure I should speak up at least once.

Atli: Just saw your post of 9/1 regarding my shop -- thanks for the kind words. Of course, at about 280 sq ft, my shop is a hobby shop, not fit for production (at least not in its present layout). It's true that I'm a great believer in gas forges now; haven't used coal in months. Still working on the noise control, but I have to admit only one neighbor has complained in three years, and he's the neighborhood curmudgeon (dislikes everybody).

Just took delivery of a new Beverly B-3 shear; been saving up for it for months. Awesome device. Cut out a 22" diameter blank in cold-rolled 12ga steel to make a bascinet, a pointy medieval helmet; spent 2.5 hours bashing it into a shallow bowl. Now for the raising!

Finally drying out in Tucson, AZ (6" of rain in eight weeks this summer!)

Eric Thing -- plburton at goodnet.com - Sunday, 09/05/99 02:36:12 GMT


I have a Old Drill press made by Canadain Blower & Forge Co Ltd in Kitchner Ontario Canada. The number of the drill press is 614. The arm that pushes the drill down into the stock to be drilled has the end broken off that rests on one of the drive gears. My question does anybody out there have a picture of this press so I can replace the arm. I do shows at the various farmers markets and fall fairs, I would like to use this drill. I picked it up this summer at a antique dealer . This one can be belt driven or turned by hand.
Thanks... Barney the Blacksmith from North Bay Ontario Canada

Barney -- barney at vianet.on.ca - Sunday, 09/05/99 20:12:00 GMT


A friend of mine has some tools for sale. He is not on the net and asked me to post them for him. He has a 250# Little Giant trip-hammer, a # 10 Edwards shear, a 350lb. anvil, a heavy floor mount pedestal grinder made to run off a flat belt drive and about
60 ft. of overhead line shafting with pulleys. You can call him at
785-945-3633. Or E-Mail me.

Steve C. -- gsculver at grasshoppernet.com - Monday, 09/06/99 01:40:21 GMT


Looking for info on a hammer with the names Always & Onions( I think ) I'm 5'9" and I have to look up to see the top. I am told it is a 500 pounder. Good condition, no motor, any Idea on the value?

tim -- ifindit at hotmail.com - Wednesday, 09/08/99 03:47:14 GMT


Tim, I have heard of Aldays & Onions. They were or are an English made hammer. That's all I can tell you, I have never seen one. Is the hammer steam, electro-pneumatic of mechanical?

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Thursday, 09/09/99 01:16:25 GMT


We are new to this page. We are looking for a portable propane gas forge that we can forge knife and sword blades, and hot enough to weld metals. Any help would be most welcome!

Robert Groomes -- groomes at smart-net - Thursday, 09/09/99 20:56:40 GMT


Robert,

Go the the Links page and click on Centaur Forge. Call the 800 number and ask for their catalog. Check the gas forges section. You will probably want the NC Whisper Daddy if you are going to do swords. You can also go to the Ron Riel page (from the links page) and see plans for building your own from scratch.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Friday, 09/10/99 00:47:56 GMT


Robert,

I failed to mention that you can also go to the top of the page and click on the ad for Steve Kayne and Son. They carry the NC series of gas forges as well.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Friday, 09/10/99 00:49:48 GMT


350# Trenton Blacksmith's Anvil, like new,freshened with clean square edges. This Anvil was made in the early 40's and has an all steel face and horn from the waist to the top. Excellent Anvil for everyday use. Ship by rail to the closet railhead or you provide shipping.

Mike Pick -- mikepick at uswest.net - Friday, 09/10/99 13:28:55 GMT


Thanks for the information, Paw Paw, I am new to all of this...I am a fine jeweler by trade and just getting into making handles,etc. in sterling with stones inlayed, etc. and thought I'd like to learn to make the blades also ( my grandfather was a smithy!) All the info rmation is MOST appreciated!!!!!

Robert Groomes -- groomes at smart - Saturday, 09/11/99 20:26:43 GMT


Does anybody know what a hammer symbol on the back of a solid brass plate means

Tampgard -- Tampgard at prodigy.net - Monday, 09/13/99 00:05:50 GMT


Does anybody know what a hammer symbol on the back of a solid brass plate means

Tampgard -- Tampgard at prodigy.net - Monday, 09/13/99 00:06:11 GMT


Robert,
I am an ABS Journeyman Bladesmith. I build propane forges for knifemakers. They are made of a castable refractory with a ceramic wool overwrap. They have a 5" diameter by 12" long heat chamber and are designed to be opened on both ends so they can be stacked together to make a longer chamber for swordsmiths. I designed them mainly for welding damascus. The Texarkana College bladesmithing school has two of them in use.
I sell them complete with the forge body, burner, blower and regulator. I can also supply a stand for them, but most folks build their own. I designed them as economically as possible to keep the price down. These are not my main business and I don't need to make a lot of money on them. I just like to help fellow smiths out by suppying inexpensive forges.
If you would like a price quote or more information, you may E-Mail me.

Steve Culver -- gsculver at grasshoppernet.com - Monday, 09/13/99 02:35:59 GMT


Robert,

There are several books written by grandpa Daryl Mier. about bladesmithing. I cannot reccomend them highly enough. Grandpa shares the secrets, tips, and tricks freely that have taken him years to learn. His books are available from Centaur Forge, and from Norm Larsen Books.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Monday, 09/13/99 03:31:10 GMT


Paw Paw what is the titles of the books writen by daryl?? I'd like to look them up.

kid -- n/a - Tuesday, 09/14/99 01:15:51 GMT


Paw Paw Wilson:what is the titles of the books writen by granpa.
I will need those titles as well as ISBN to order them here in Sweden
Thanks

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Tuesday, 09/14/99 09:12:27 GMT


Kid & OErjan,

DUH! When a book reviewer mixes up authors, you know that the CRS is getting really bad!

I don't think Grandpa has written any books. Dr. Jim Hrisoulas has, and is currently writing a new one. If I remember correctly (and I wouldn't bet on it) Bill Moran wrote "The Complete Bladesmith"

I'll see what I can find in the way of titles and ISBN's for both of you.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Wednesday, 09/15/99 00:53:53 GMT


Well, if Grandpa hasn't written a book, he should. Probably too busy making beautiful blades! ;-)

Battening down for foul weather, which could "come up the Atlantic Coast like a 'weed whacker'."

Visit your National Parks: www.nps.gov

We are back in the water again, just in time for hurricane season: www.wam.umd.edu/~eowyn/Longship/ (cASE sENSITIVE)

Bruce Blackistone (Atli) -- bruce_blackistone at nps.gov - Wednesday, 09/15/99 13:45:38 GMT


I am looking for ANY information for scholarships for blacksmith's looking to go to school. I am about to go to school but due to my limited funds I am almost unable to go to the school of my choice.
Please send/post any info on blacksmith/metalsmith/metalurgy scholarships.

Thamk You
Scotsman

scotsman -- albagobragh99 at yahoo.com - Thursday, 09/16/99 15:39:26 GMT


hello,I recently did some trading and got a 155# peter wright anvil
that looks to be in pretty good shape" I don't know anything about
anvils"and a champion model 400 whirlwind blast forge and model 400
handcrank blower on tripod. I'm not interested in selling just interested in knowing the value of what i"ve got, I have been playing
around with it in the back yard and find it really interesting now i"m
a wannabe blacksmith. Thanks in advance for any information.
Sammy Abbott,New Castle,va

sammy abbott -- sabbott at swva.net - Monday, 09/20/99 02:09:09 GMT


I have made inquiries before and no one has replied. I would like to know if anyone has information on an old railroad forge with Phoenix cast on it. It has a flywheel driven Champion #1 blower. I am looking for a picture of how the belts were attached. Please reply to e-mail address. Thank you for yopur kind assistance.

Stoney

Stoneyoaks Forge -- dcliford at jps.net - Tuesday, 09/21/99 03:11:08 GMT


Forge Trailer: After last year's discussion on forge trailers, I decided to go ahead and build my own. I'm a bit older than dirt, so that pulling the anvil on and off for storage seemed a bit of a pain. My solution was to start with a flatbed (old hay trailer) and build the entire shop on the trailer. To keep from hammering on an anvil supported on trailer springs, I have a rather unique system to brace the stump (and whole back of the trailer) onto the ground. I've used it about 4 times this summer, adding things each time. I have some preliminary photos (a little too dark, but you can see the overall impression) on my website. Go to "http://skunk-hollow.homepage.com" and have a look. Site is barely under construction, but will have more later.

Morgan Hall -- morganh at aracnet.com - Friday, 09/24/99 16:22:19 GMT


Morgan,

VERY nice job! I went to your site, out of curiosity, stayed for a good while out of admiration! I think I'd have tried to figure a way to raise and lower the roof, to make an easier travel profile, but that's still very nice work.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Friday, 09/24/99 22:57:36 GMT


Here's a temperature chart that some of you might find usefull.

Air Temperatures:

60 degrees - Californians put on their mink coats.

50 degrees - Miami residents turn on the heat.
Californians shiver uncontrollably,

45 degrees - Vermont residents go to outdoor concert.
Californians weep pitifully.

40 degrees - You can see your breath,
Californians disappear,
Wisconsinite go swimming.

35 degrees - Italians cars don't start.

32 degrees - Water freezes.

30 degrees - You plan your vacation in Australia.

25 degrees - Ohio water freezes,
Wisconsinite eat ice cream,
Canadians go swimming.

20 degrees - Politicians begin to talk about the homeless,
New York City water freezes,
Miami residents plan vacation farther south.

15 degrees - French cars don't start,
cat insists on sleeping in your bed with you.

10 degrees - You need jumper cables to get the car going.

5 degrees - British cars don't start.

0 degrees - Alaskans put on T-shirts,
American cars don't start.

-10 degrees - German cars don't start,
eyes freeze shut when you step outside.

-15 degrees - You can cut your breath and use it to build an igloo,
Arkansasians stick tongue on metal objects,
Miami residents cease to exist.

-20 degrees - Cat insists on sleeping in pajamas with you,
politicians actually do something about the homeless
Wisconsinite shovel snow off roof,
Japanese cars don't start.

-25 degrees - Too cold to think, you need jumper cables to get the
driver going.

-30 degrees - You plan a two week hot bath,
Swedish cars don't start.

-40 degrees -Wisconsinite button top button,
Canadians put on sweater,
your car helps you plan your trip South.

-50 degrees - Congressional hot air freezes,
Alaskans close the bathroom window.

-80 degrees - Polar bears move South, Green Bay Packer
(and Buffalo Bills) fans order hot cocoa at
the game.

-90 degrees - Lawyers put their hands in their own pockets.

-100 degrees- Hell freezes over and Democrats finally admit Clinton
is a liar.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Sunday, 09/26/99 01:03:37 GMT


I havebiult a small forge,made great steaks! Have to find coal for the metal work. No hurry ,winter will be a good time to play with the fire. I work on knives. I like the work. Greetings to all. Arthur VanNostrand

Vannostrand -- arthur at hit.net - Sunday, 09/26/99 05:46:03 GMT


The third annual blacksmithing conference of the Saltfork Craftsmen is scheduled for October 2& 3, 1999. The place to be is Guthrie, OK, at the Southwest Ironworks, 302 W. College Ave., Mike Boone and Peter Ross are the featured demonstrators. For more info contact Bill Davis 580 549 6824 or davis at sonetcom.com I am going from the Tulsa area if anyone would like to ride along.

Mike Sweany -- sweanym1 at juno.com - Sunday, 09/26/99 18:10:25 GMT


I just acquired a 80 ton mecanical press. It has a 1 3/4 " throw. I am needing ideas for uses, for this monster. Thankx

Mark Damman -- ddamman at mail.holton.k12.ks.us - Monday, 09/27/99 16:25:11 GMT


Mark, What kind of press is it? Different presses have different uses. Standard flywheel driven punch presses are good for all kinds of things but if you overload them, kerPlow! No more press. Punch presses are good for punching holes, shearing or nibbling and bending. In every case the loads must be known before putting work in the press. If you try to stall that flywheel something always breaks.
"Fly" presses (see the power hammer page) are designed to be stalled with every stroke and are best for high force coining and closed die forgeing.

Jock D. -- webmaster at anvilfire.com - Wednesday, 09/29/99 01:54:23 GMT


looking for plans on building a hydralic arbor press

thanks

mueller -- mmueller at teleparts.com - Wednesday, 09/29/99 17:11:55 GMT


All,

Leaving town tomorrow morning, going to Norris, Tn, Museum of Appalachia. Will be pounding iron there from Wensday the 6th
through Sunday the 11th. If you're in the area, stop by and
intoduce yourself, I'll be wearing Union Army Blue! (grin)

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Monday, 10/04/99 02:11:28 GMT


All,

I hadn't planned to do anything but check mail this morning, but I had
several emails asking about what I'm doing this week, so decided to post the following.

Norris, Tn is 16 miles north of Knoxville at exit 122 off of I75.

Norris is the home of the Museum of Appalachia. Their "Tennessee Fall Homecoming", held every October has been voted one of the top 20 craft shows in the South East for the last 10 years. In addition to all the
craftsmen, they will have 7 stages of mountain music. I did NOT say country music, I said mountain music, though of course there IS a lot of crossover. As much fun as the staged music is, I personally enjoy the strolling musicians and groups that get together just to "jam" as much if not more.

They only invite two blacksmiths per year to demonstrate, so I feel
honored to be going up for my 8th consecutive year.

Jim

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Monday, 10/04/99 12:42:34 GMT


I need help finding plans to fabricate a wood stove. Any help would be appreciated.

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Monday, 10/04/99 13:58:07 GMT


hello all im looking for other smiths the sanjose area
and trying to find a good deal on a small gas forge
so drop me a line if you know of eather
thanks D

dorian r -- perish at pacbell.net - Tuesday, 10/05/99 07:37:36 GMT


You can make a small gas forge very cheep. I needed a quick and dirty forge to make some u-nails to hold down a new anvil. I had a piece of pipe about 12"dia and 16" long. I threw in some kaowool scraps and used some fire bricks to half block off the ends and pointed a "weed burner" (purchased at Harbour Freight) in the back end for heat. It got hot enough to forge with but not weld. Total cost. about $25 Just keep the burner in clear air, out of the heat. I clamped mine at about a 45 deg angle down and forward into the forge.

It worked so well I am planing to cut a hole in the side of the pipe for the burner so it can blow straight into the forge and make the stand and brick ends more permenant and add a fire shelf bottom. It should be a good forge.

BenThar -- benthar at pacbell.net - Tuesday, 10/05/99 13:33:08 GMT


You can make a small gas forge very cheep. I needed a quick and dirty forge to make some u-nails to hold down a new anvil. I had a piece of pipe about 12"dia and 16" long. I threw in some kaowool scraps and used some fire bricks to half block off the ends and pointed a "weed burner" (purchased at Harbour Freight) in the back end for heat. It got hot enough to forge with but not weld. Total cost. about $25 Just keep the burner in clear air, out of the heat. I clamped mine at about a 45 deg angle down and forward into the forge.

It worked so well I am planing to cut a hole in the side of the pipe for the burner so it can blow straight into the forge and make the stand and brick ends more permenant and add a fire shelf bottom. It should be a good forge.

BenThar -- benthar at pacbell.net - Tuesday, 10/05/99 13:33:44 GMT


This isn´t a forum for car-owners,I know, but since I see a lot of photos of heavy-duty trucks from whenever there´s a gathering of American blacksmiths I thought I could as well ask you guys: My coal and junk hauler is a -77 Jeep Cherokee, it says so in the papers, but it has four doors, and I´m told it should be a Wagoneer. Are there any four-door Cherokee´s?

Olle Andersson -- utgaardaolle at ebox.tninet.se - Tuesday, 10/05/99 19:44:53 GMT


hello, I am looking for a few items for a holiday gift for my husband. He has been itching for a gas powered forge. Nothing to fancy. what I need help with is locating the parts so that he can put it together. We participate in midevil reenactment and he would like to manufacture candle holders eating equipment, etc. I also need any information on used anvils and what type I should get. If anyone would know where I might purchase these items either online or in Portland Oregon. I would appreciate the info. thanks

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Wednesday, 10/06/99 21:00:59 GMT


hello, I am looking for a few items for a holiday gift for my husband. He has been itching for a gas powered forge. Nothing to fancy. what I need help with is locating the parts so that he can put it together. We participate in midievil reenactment and he would like to manufacture candle holders eating equipment, etc. I also need any information on used anvils and what type I should get. If anyone would know where I might purchase these items either online or in Portland Oregon. I would appreciate the info. thanks

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Wednesday, 10/06/99 21:33:49 GMT


Bruce, whats the wood stove going to be used for? Home, shop? How much space are you going to heat? Pete

Pete - Wednesday, 10/06/99 23:50:25 GMT


I agree with Pete,How large an area are you trying to heat?? what kind of design considerations?
Any limiting factors like: with, length, height, should it be portable?

I have some tree different “designs” from a small (320mm long 300mm high 200mm wide) to a verry large one (852 high by 550 in diameter) with heat accumulator.
They are all rather cheap to make and they work.
I have no plans on my PC but I can make some if you want.

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Thursday, 10/07/99 13:31:24 GMT


Olle, I think, but i'm not sure, that a grand Cherokee is a 4-door. like i said, i'm not sure..... hope it helps.

idjut - Thursday, 10/07/99 23:51:01 GMT


I am a jewelers apprentice in upstate NY. Recently, we received a request for a silver dagger. Neither I nor my employer have any bladesmithing knowledge or experience. Where do we start? Please e-mail if you can help. Thank you!- Stacey B

Stacey B -- chs at frontiernet.net - Friday, 10/08/99 15:09:41 GMT


I would like to extend a thank-you to all who emailed me and helped with my delema. I wasn't sure that it would be possible to gather info and materials for a forge. I have now come to share the passion my partner feels for smithing. I do have one more favor to ask if I may.....I would like to direct my husband to a class. I have already written down the books sugested at this GREAT site. I think he would be very interested in attending a basic class. Any suggestions would be wonderful. thank-you all.

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Friday, 10/08/99 20:45:10 GMT


Hello out there

Roger - Saturday, 10/09/99 00:30:55 GMT


Pete and OErjan, The wood stove palns are not for me. I'm trying to help a freind find plans. If it was me I wood buy a wood stove instead or building one. I don't have many details about what he wants. He just told me something to heat a small cabin. Anything at this point would be a help. The guy who's looking for the plan is starting to get on my nerves with his nagging.

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Sunday, 10/10/99 00:52:01 GMT


I’ll try to get the plans for the smaller (and simpler) wood stove done by the middle of the week.
With the forge running it is rarely used wonder why ;-). OK ok I admit using it when it’s below -15–20*C,

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Sunday, 10/10/99 11:04:34 GMT


OErjan, Thanks for your help. Please don't put yourself to alot of trouble.

Bruce R. Wallace -- Walmetalwk at aol.com - Monday, 10/11/99 00:27:55 GMT


hi i am 17 and just stated black smithing any 1 who has any informaition that could help me get stated and any tips for working the metal.I just got an anvil for $30 in is 115lbs. my next project is making the forge this could be hard any tips really any thing please
help. Where can I get a blower for my forge. Thanx

scott -- scottgresh at hotmail.com - Tuesday, 10/12/99 23:14:15 GMT


I am sad to say that the p+lans will be late (the puter crashed) they will be along by friday though.

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Wednesday, 10/13/99 15:55:35 GMT


Nashville:

I'll be in Nashville, TN from Sunday, 10/17 'til Saturday, 10/23, somewhere out near the airport. I don't expect to have a lot of free time (Appraisal Institute training course, heavy hitting of books!) but if we have any smiths in that neck of the woods, I wouldn't mind dropping by for a bit some weeknight (or Saturday afternoon, if the morning exam goes well) and check out the shop.

Sunny, and downright pleasant, on the banks of the Potomac.

Visit your National Parks: www.nps.gov

Go Viking: www.wam.umd.edu/~eowyn/Longship/ (cASE sENSITIVE)

cc: asylum at us.HSAnet.net

Bruce Blackistone (Atli) -- bruce_blackistone at nps.gov - Wednesday, 10/13/99 19:53:36 GMT


Hey all, *grin*
sorry about the fact that I asked for good teachers without giving my location. I did state it in my first post but I need a good teacher in Portland Oregon. For my better half. He has wanted a forge for the longest time and if all goes well this years scavenger hunt for the gifts will be a great kodak moment. Thanks to all that have helped so far. As so as he gets his gift I will turn him on to this great site <:)

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Thursday, 10/14/99 04:43:16 GMT


A few weeks ago I saw a great demo by Tom Latane at SOFA's Quad States Roundup. I was fascinated to see that he uses lump charcoal instead of coal. I would like to try this too but have no supplier. I live in the Cincinnati (OH) area -- does anybody know somewhere anywhere near here where I can get lump charcoal?

Thanks! Tom Kopp, Oxford, Ohio

tom kopp -- kopptw at muohio.edu - Friday, 10/15/99 17:12:58 GMT


Flora,

You might go to Fort Vancouver in Washington. They have a working shop and when I visited there I found some very helpful and friendly people. I'm sure they could help you find someone to help your husband get started. The most important thing to making progress is practice though. The ideal gift would also include a couple dozen coupons redeemable for getting out of all chores for an afternoon to use the new toys.

Philippe Habib -- phabib at well.com - Friday, 10/15/99 17:42:55 GMT


hey,

I have a Novelty Iron Works Power Hammer for sale, how can I sell here on Anvilfire?
Ryan

Ryan Wasson -- krw996s at mail.smsu.edu - Friday, 10/15/99 18:40:41 GMT


Hello,
My brother Gary Prazen told me about you and your page. You have a nice website. I thought that you might like to check out mine. It is www.prazen.com . I also do a lot of different kinds of metal sculpture, railings, and furniture. Check it out if you get a chance.
Best regards, Richard Prazen

Richard Prazen -- richardprazen at mailcity.com - Saturday, 10/16/99 03:02:23 GMT


Would like to know proper way of installing eye hole hoes, mattocks, & picks on wooden handles.

Larry Maddox -- johngalt at wfeca.net - Sunday, 10/17/99 00:27:26 GMT


Philippe, You have a great idea about "the get out of doing chores" coupons. I have to admit though that I have alteriour motives for buying him the forge. It means less of the sports chanel *big grin only other sports widowers would understand*. Anyway thanks to all the help. I'll keep everyone posted <:)

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Tuesday, 10/19/99 01:40:34 GMT


flora,
Did you ever get ahold of Morgan?
Also if you have not looked at Ron Reil's webpage you should. He has a very easy to build burner design on it. And for a forge shell I have a couple of freon tanks. One of them would make a good first forge.
BTW I live in Hillsboro, which is not too far from Portrland.

Ralph Douglass -- ralphd at jps.net - Tuesday, 10/19/99 14:31:14 GMT


Finnaly glad to find a n informative web site o our proffession

Hat Creek Forge -- hatcreek_forge at yahoo.com - Tuesday, 10/19/99 21:46:20 GMT


An annoucement!

Anvilfire will soon have two new pages. a Product review page and a Rogues Gallery. The Rogues Gallery will consist of pictures of the Anvilfire regulars, including pictures of any one that demonstrates
in costume. Here's your chance for your picture to be seen all over the world! (grin)

Send scanned photos and permission to use them to:

guru at anvilfire.com

THANKS!

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Wednesday, 10/20/99 03:31:42 GMT


no I haven't gotten ahold of morgan yet. thank-you for the info Ralph. I really need someone who knows the area to take me to get the materials. The last time i went driving in down town Portland, I ended up in Washington!!!! I still haven't lived that one down :) I am still looking for a used but in good shape anvil about 100 to 160lbs. If anyone has one please email me.

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Wednesday, 10/20/99 05:07:51 GMT


HELP!!! i need a blower!! if anyone has on that they don't need anymore, please let me know. Or if you have an old vacuum that you don't want let me know! Pleeeassse, my hairdryers keep burning out!

Thank you
scotsman
:):)

scotsman -- albagobragh99 at yahoo.com - Wednesday, 10/20/99 22:30:48 GMT


Greetings, I'm a beginning blacksmith who got interested by working at a Living History museum in up-state New York. I'm now living in Northerna California and am interested in purchasing a old anvil and forge. I guess I'm curious on what is the best way to locate the equipment and how much is reasonable to spend? I would appreciate any help. Thanks....Buck

Buck Highfiield -- cmhighfield at hotmail.com - Friday, 10/22/99 22:45:22 GMT


I have a question concerning the value of an old hand forge. It is in
working condition & good shape. The markings are Challenge Chicago
Heights, ILL FCCO. I would appreciate any information concerning the
manufacturer and what the value might be. Thanks for your help.

Bill Lincoln -- whislima at aol.com - Saturday, 10/23/99 15:41:04 GMT


anybody home?

Mike in Milwaukee -- GHS at execpc.com - Saturday, 10/23/99 21:37:01 GMT


I am looking for Craig Schaefer. Craig you had an anvil for sale. I can't seem to get through on your email. thanks :)

flora -- floralefray at netscape.net - Sunday, 10/24/99 19:53:33 GMT


This was posted on theforge e-mail group.

To All:
Francis Whitaker died Saturday 10:00 pm cst. Tenative memorial at Colorado Rocky Mountain School , Carbondale, CO tuesday Oct 26 at 3:00 pm. He will be missed by all of us who knew him.
> Lou Mueller

Go with God, Francis.

Rob Fertner -- AFERTNER at kscable.com - Sunday, 10/24/99 22:44:27 GMT


This was posted on theforge e-mail group.

To All:
Francis Whitaker died Saturday 10:00 pm cst. Tenative memorial at Colorado Rocky Mountain School , Carbondale, CO tuesday Oct 26 at 3:00 pm. He will be missed by all of us who knew him.
> Lou Mueller

Go with God, Francis.

Rob Fertner -- AFERTNER at kscable.com - Sunday, 10/24/99 22:45:08 GMT


All: Francis Whitaker died Saturday 10:00 pm cst. Tenative memorial at
Colorado Rocky Mountain School , Carbondale, CO tuesday Oct 26 at 3:00 pm.

He will be missed by who knew him.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net/~pawpaw/ - Sunday, 10/24/99 22:48:55 GMT


Rob,

I should have waited to check the messages before I posted.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Sunday, 10/24/99 22:51:57 GMT


PawPaw,Read your post on going to Norris Tenn. Went there in 91 and was really impressed with the museum. hope you had a safe and prospers trip. Stiffy

Stiffy -- mklbjean at k-inc.com - Sunday, 10/24/99 23:18:26 GMT


Stiffy,

It was a safe trip. But it rained all Friday afternoon, all day Saturday, and into the afternoon on Sunday. And that had a negative impact on sales. But I enjoyed myself, as I always do up there.

If the last time you were there was in 91, it's time to go again. John Rice Irwin has added a couple of "new" attractions that you will enjoy.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net/~pawpaw - Monday, 10/25/99 00:17:24 GMT


I have two old forge blowers. One of them is in the antique catagory( stands on bent pipe legs and the blower is about workbench high. The other one is a later model ( I think this was used as an air exchanger in the bomb shelters, back in the 50's
Is there any interest from any of you fellow blacksmiths?
Thanks for your attention: Jim, Kanona, New York

Jim Lininger -- imgems at webtv.net - Tuesday, 10/26/99 10:55:06 GMT


Gee Wiz. I finally figured out how to get into your system.

I have another question that some of you folks might be able to help me.

I have a melting furnace but I am afraid to use it. The only notation was that I should have a minimum of eight foot ceiling. I want to use this for melting silver. I am a jeweler and have never had to melt loarger loads than a torch could handle. Now I would like to use this furnace. I will really appreciate some safety advise? I think this anvilfire is great!

Jim, Finger Lakes Region, New York

Jim Lininger -- imgems at webtv.net - Tuesday, 10/26/99 11:10:56 GMT


Jim, The overhead clearance is important and THAT should be non-flamable. The problems of larger crucibles are the same as small ones but scaled up by the cube of the increase in size!

First rule is to use proper fitting crucible lifting tongs. These come in sizes to fit each crucible (one size does NOT fit more than one size crucible.

Pouring rings (wrong term) are the same except that they must fit hot and cold crucibles. Do not pour using lifting tongs.

I always recommend practice runs, removing lid, lifting, transfer, and pouring. This should be as smooth as a ballet. When the crucible is at a red heat EVERYTHING goes wrong. Practice ahead of time. Where are you going to lay down those hot tongs, crucibles ect?

Ventilation - Fumes also go up by the cube of the increase in size. Things you can get away with with a torch suddenly require a four to 12 foot opening with an exhaust fan.

Personal protection is also a larger issue. A couple grams of molten metal will hurt you, a couple pounds spilled in your shoe will maim you. Spilled metal runs like mecury across tables, floors and inside clothing. Face shield AND saftey glasses, apron and gloves, foundry spats and shoe protectors.

You will find that safety equipment is as big an investment as the furnace. Try one of C.W. Ammen's books on casting. He will cover the safety issues much better than I can in this forum.

Welcome to anvilfire! OBTW - I answer questions on the guru page. I rarely check here as this is a free-for-all for the piublic to use! Thank Jim Wilson for letting me know your question was here.

Jock D. -- guru at anvilfire.com - Wednesday, 10/27/99 13:24:29 GMT


Jock swears this'll work, so I'll try it. If it doesn't look right, blame him! (grin)

REQUIEM FOR A MASTER

He wasn't a giant,
But he stood tall.

He wasn't big,
But he made other men small.

He was a master,
With time for an apprentice.

To teach the apprentice,
The magic of iron.

To show him the beauty,
Of red hot steel.

He was Francis.

At 3:00 PM Mountain Standard Time,
All over the world.

Anvils began to ring.
94 measured strokes.

In Canada,
In New Zealand,
In California,
In Arizona,
In Texas,
In Oregon,
In Virginia,
In North Carolina,
In South Carolina,
In Alabama,
And in Florida.

In many other places as well.
The anvils rang.
94 measured stokes.
One for each year of his life.

Saying farewell.
To a Master.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Thursday, 10/28/99 03:37:47 GMT


At least one anvil rung in Sweden (rather odd hour here).

All masters that die are a loss to the world,be it in smithing or anny other craft.
A master will leave a hole in the world a hole that is hard to fill.
that hole is HIS knowlege, experience and skill lost to us for all time.
I have seen some of his work, not in person, but it gives a hint to what he could do(and did) with his knowlege, skill and experience.
not every one can put theirs to action and get that kind of results in the end (I wish I could, O how I wish)
OErjan out

OErjan -- pokerbacken at angelfire.com - Friday, 10/29/99 14:18:07 GMT


OErjan,

How I wish I had known that you rang in! I'd have included Sweden in the list of countries in the poem, if I had only known! Too late now, durn it! Sorry, I did NOT mean to slight either you OR Sweden.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Friday, 10/29/99 18:41:19 GMT


OErjan,

How I wish I had known that you rang in! I'd have included Sweden in the list of countries in the poem, if I had only known! Too late now, durn it! Sorry, I did NOT mean to slight either you OR Sweden.

Paw Paw Wilson -- pawpaw at netunlimited.net - Friday, 10/29/99 18:40:57 GMT



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