JustinJ1982

In East Texas. https://post.craigslist.org/manage/3192081366

Well got everything aligned this evening and finally started forging tonight. Over the weekend I finally got a stump for my anvil and learned how to properly light ny forge. Took a go at a RR spike and this is what I got. Wasn't aiming for perfection, just getting a feel for how the metal moves and what my hammer can do. Its nothing compared to what I see on here but this gave me some confidence and drive just making this. Gonna hit it on the grinder tomorrow and sharpen it and hang it on the wall.

Thx Glenn. Im gonna try the stick method tomorrow. I know my problem was trying to get it done too quickly. I was too excited!!! I will have more time tomorrow so hopefully I will have better luck. Again, thanks for the info.

Im really just now getting started smithing, or trying to smith lol. I was wondering what the lifespan of coal is. I see people with forges that have a looooot of coal. I guess what Im trying to figure out is if it can be relit and does it just burn up or do you have to clean out the "used" coal in a forge? Hope Im not confusing anyone but myself.

Well, got off work tonight with plans on lighting up my forge for the first time. Tried and tried with no success. I have good coal for sure I guess I was just rushing things. Used the balled up newspaper method but couldn't really get a good lasting flame to ignite my coal. Try again tomorrow I guess.

All are awesome blades man but "The Squid" is epic. Top notch work.

Nice man. Congrats and awesome knife.

I will be there for sure. Only an hour away!!! Gonna be my first blacksmithing event.

I have neither of those. What about a hand file?

Thanks sir. Will sandpaper be sufficient? Maybe a dremel tool?

Just a local hardware store bought cross peen made in Mexico with a wooden handle. 2lbs. My question is should I file the grooves down on the face and smooth off the sharp round edge too?

What are the pros and cons of wood vs. Synthetic handled hammers and what is your preference?

Awesome Tundra.

I know!!!! I don't know what to dooooooo.

Thats my luck though. I finally find an anvil for way cheap and its my first usable one and now I don't even wanna touch. Ahhhhhh!!!! I would rather have a good one to use and let someone take care of this one.