I have just recently gotten the Blacksmithing Bug, and I was wondering what all you guys thought of my attempt/idea for a forge. For the Forge/Smelter/Fire Box I plan on using an old Cole Heated Water Heater it is cast iron, has a swinging grate for ash, and is about the same size around as a brake drum (which was my first idea for the forge). For a blower I have an 1880's cast iron blower, the Buffalo Blower #3 that needs a LOT of TLC ] but will be well worth it once its finished.
The reason I am using these things is because they were FREE (best price) my in-laws had them rotting away in their garden as decoration. Next best part is, I got a 125# anvil and a number of other blacksmith (or so I think) tools. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.
