Finnr

Great news!
Finnr

Having cared for several ALS residents in the homes where I was a CNA I know how hard it is on all involved. My prayers definately go out to Sid, his wife and family.
Finnr /Art

Mine says Wilkinsons, over crossed ovals, and Queens Dudley under the ovals. From what Ive found online there were five makers using the same name over time. Mine must be before the country of origin was required for import. The other possibility is mine came in through Canada where Wilkinson anvils were more popular. Try this link for more information:
The ABANA Forums: Wilkinson Anvil
Finnr

I have to go along with the idea of getting a decent arc welder. Then at some later date take a good welding class for the O/A.
Finnr

Howdy neighbor. I am in Western Wisconsin not too far from the twin cities. Welcome to the site.
Finnr

I'll keep the little one in my thoughts and prayers!
Finnr

I picked up a Wells Bros vise a while back for $25.00 and resold it for $150.00 still well below the outrageous prices I have seen them bring on ebay.

I also have a Wilkinson Anvil but not Wilkinson Patent. Mine just has Wilkinson Queen's Dudley on the side. It's a fine piece of equipment made in the older style of multiple pieces forged together for the body,and the face plate welded on, unlike the PW anvils that were made in two pieces (base and body ) with the tool steel face plate welded on. If my memory serves me rightly.


Finnr

An anvil made of only cast iron will chip, deform and by and large be a waste of money. There were several brands of anvils made with cast iron bodies and tool steel faces. I have not used one so I can't give them a fair shake as far as to the quality.
Finnr

Yes Sam I think about it every time I fire the forge. Working hot metal is about the best thing that's ever happened to me in my life.
Finnr /Art

First off , what part of Wisconsin, would be a great help. Up this way Badger Blacksmiths offers a beginners class with one coming up this month. See if you can locate a guild or ABANA chapter near you.
Finnr

I got a block at long last and have used it on a daily basis since I unloaded it. I use it for anything round I guess would be pretty safe to say.Rather anything I want to make round.
Finnr

Check the BP on Vise stand that I did . BP0491 Vise Stand It is a simple way to keep your hammers handy. You should be able to adapt it to what ever you want to hang up.
Finnr

I'm in the Eau Claire area of Wisconsin. I don't get to the Southern area real often unless it's for a SCA event though.
Finnr

Cowboy is great. Royal Oak on the other hand is not so great!!! Of course all I can find right now is Royal Oak!
Finnr

I live and work alone in a rural area. I have the cell with me at all times and also have a "Life line" necklace to call help if needed. ( Mom insisted) . I just have to be able to hit the button on the necklace.
Finnr /Art

Any child in need has my prayers. I'll send em out for her!!
Finnr

It's sad to hear of your loss Bob. Take comfort in your memories and take the love you had for her and cherish it. Mom's are very special folks.
Finnr/ Art

Welcome to the forum . Be warned that one tool just isn't enough!!! That's the fun of the craft. You can make the tools to make the tools.

Looks like you came out pretty well on the Peter wright. My 115 is a bit more like Jayco's, needs a bit of TLC when I find time.

Enjoy!
Finnr

Prayers go with you and for your Mom as well.
Finnr

Shooting cost me a good part of my hearing so now to blacksmith I just turn my hearing aids off. They make excellent ear plugs.
Finnr

Ecart, my heart goes out to you. I know how badly I miss my Dad.
Finnr

just had to try my hand at doing a mushroom. Here's what I came up with.
http://www.iforgeiron.com/gallery/showphoto.php/photo/4396

Finnr Bjornsson Studios is my business, taken from my SCA name.
Finnr /Art

Check out the Blue Prints for a huge amount of information. The book review section will also give you a good look at available off line material.

Making stuff for fun is good , but making money while having fun is gooder!!!
Finnr

Or whip on over to HF and pick up a couple of the cheap sledges they sell and rework the heads into Cross peen or slash peens to use until you get some good smithing hammers.
Finnr