Hello Everyone,
I'm an aspiring metalsmith. Hoping to acquire the necessary equipment, gradually over the next few years, and more than likely throughout the rest of my life..(lol)
I had a question about forges. Gas forges in particular. I actually plan on starting small, with knives. But, I was curious. Lets say I wanted to make a 56 inch overall length( including length of tang) Great Sword (I just broke a sweat thinking about that chore). What size forge would be necessary for such a task? I figured if the forge was able to tackle that feat, it would be able to handle any sword shorter.
Does anyone make a gas forge that can handle that size project? Or would it require a coal forge? I am just not so sure coal is readily available in my area, also, I am not so sure my neighbors would appreciate me burning it.
Or is there some detail I am missing about forges. Like only needing to heat sections of the blade at a time. Flipping it around and doing the other half. That way, to accomodate a 56 inch sword, a forge that is 28-30 inches deep?..
Thanks for the help.