Finnr

A quick tour of local junkyards a while back netted several hunks of rail at a quarter a pound. The problem there is the crown on the rail. It takes a lot of grinding to get a flat surface.

Finding a real anvil isn't all that hard in this area. Paying for one can be as antique dealers are grabbing them up for silly money.

Finnr

The one i am using right now is a blower from an old gas water heater. The one I just picked up along with a big by huge fire pot clinker breaker and Tuyre is the housing of an old champion 400 with an older than dirt GE washing machine motor. For five bucks I think I did ok.
Finnr

Right now I am set up on my porch with plans to build a shop for the forge this summer. Probably good thing I am single . Somehow I don't see a Mrs taking kindly to coal smoke right next to the kitchen door.
Finnr

Thanks for the warm welcome. As soon as I get some decent pictures I will gladly post them. Kind of odd how I got into the smithing. I merchant SCA events and always get placed near the blacksmiths. One thing led to another until I was spending nearly as much time with the smiths as I was spending in my own booth. Coal and iron are just plain FUN!
Finnr

Hello. I am a woodworker who has recently taken up blacksmithing. I find it facinating and fun. I am an artist and craftsman living in a rural farm area of Western Wisconsin. Feel free to ask if you want to know more.
Finnr