Elemental Metal Creations

I am getting ready to upgrade my forge and am wondering which would be better in the long run. The 55gal barrel or to make a table out of a 22" x 30" x 1/8" piece of plate that I have? I don't have any torches or welders, I do have grinders, drills and assorted power saws. I also have a ready built stand so I would need to cut a hole in the plate, attach angle iron sides and mount to the stand. I do know that the drum would be easier and faster but it seems that the table might be a better set up in the long run. I just want to hear the pros & cons of both. I am in no big hurry, I can use ithe forge for a while as is on blocks.
Thanks

I'm callin the sheriff because you robbed the guy! Great find!! Enjoy.

Thanks for the info guys.
Thanks for the link Tom, I had seen this before just needed a reminder., It is on my to build list

I have a brake drum forage that made about 1-1/2 years ago, I I did a little work with it using homade charcoal as fuel and then got busy with other things. I am getting ready to get serious (somewhat) and do some work. I do not have a source for coal, but an endless supply of oak and hickory to make charcoal from. I wanted to get some thoughts on using charcoal vs coal. I am not working and have very limited cash to spend.
Thanks.