HypnoprisM

Wow, thanks for the heads up guys! I definitely don't want it to crack or fall apart with a hot piece of steel that could fly away. I will try to think up some other anvil alternatives and pass it by you if I think of anything  :)

Thanks for the feedback as always, Hypno.

Hey, Hypno here.

     Put simply, I was just wondering if it would be possible to make an anvil out of concrete. My idea would be to put it into a form of some sort and let it cure into a useful shape. Would it be strong enough to endure hammer blows? Would it make a useful surface material?

Just a thought, Hypno.

Thank you guys so much for the feedback and the car brakedrum idea is great! After reading this I priced it all out and it looks like I should be able to go by a couple of places and get everything for around 40$ or so. And I can always keep my eye out for free stuff around town  :)

EDIT: Also junk day for my neighborhood is coming up and I will surely be scavenging anything and everything this year. I could probably find an old BBQ'er to forge in or other useful things.

Hey, Hypno here.

I have been interested in blacksmithing for the last year and I've read all the books but now I'm ready to buy some tools and start. Now this is my dilemma: I can't spend much more than $50 on the whole shabang. The good news is I already have some a couple of hammers and a bench press so those won't have to be purchased. Anyways, I was wondering if any of you knew how I could get/make an anvil and forge to start blacksmithing/bladesmithing for under $50. (Please note I have NO powertools and I myself can't fabricate easily)

Your feedback is appreciated! Hypno.