Trackinman

Thanks to all who responded. The anvil was covered with a surface rust, and came off well with a wire cup brush on my side grinder. Is there a way ya'll would recommend to "cure" (as in cast iron fry pan) the anvel and prevent further rusting? Trackinman

Gentlemen, I purchased a Peter Wright brand anvil today. It seems pretty solid and is one heavy chuck of steel! Has anyone of you had experience with this brand of anvil and could tell me the "pros" and "cons" about it? Thanks, Trackinman :confused:

Thanks Woody, Makes sense to go a bit smaller, and the cylinder shape does seem to be more efficient. Maybe I am thinking a bit too large to start. Trackinman

Hello All, I just registered and am looking to become a blacksmith. I presently am making knives using the stock removal method. I am having so much fun, I would like to forge my own blades, harden and temper them myself. This brings me to the topic...homemade gas forges. I am looking at building a gas forge using a Weber kettle grill. My plan is to line the bottom half of the kettle with fire brick and refractory cement, and the top half with 1" Kaowool or Duroblanket (8 lb) and coat it also with refractory cement. Of course, I am going to add a burner and blower to the top portion of the top half. I would then place the top on the grill ans seal it to the bottom portion. Has anyone of you experienced Smiths done this, heard of this being done, and am I courting disaster here???:confused: Would love to hear from you all! trackinman