Ericjor

ive been checking on CL for about a week, but just found a 70# vanadium for $310, cheaper and bigger than the emerson on Centaurforge, i think i will be getting this one, looks well used but in pretty good shape.

why is it important to be so heavy? To prevent harder hammer blows from causing it to move slightly?

how about the #50 emerson? http://www.centaurforge.com/Emerson-50-lbs-Traditional-Anvil-Eligible-for-Free-Shipping-See-Home-Page-for-full-details/productinfo/EMERSON50/ Will 50# be enough for knives and small swords? I was told that 70# is cutting it close, but would think that 50 would be okay for tools and other small things. Also i dont think the first one i listed is in fact cast iron, they state on ebay that it is not cast iron, but is in fact steel. Not Cast Iron- but hardened and tempered STEEL, it also has a beautiful ring to it!!

in that case what is a good site to pick one up? any place people list them for sale? i can pay more if necessary. But havent found many other sites. Unfortunately most listed on centaurforge seem to be farriers. Wasnt familiar with the difference when i posted this.

Based on my budget i am looking at a 75# anvil on ebay, brand not named. With shipping it comes out to $215. http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-EXTREMELY-RUGGED-ROUND-HORN-FARRIER-WELDING-BLACKSMITH-75-POUND-STEEL-ANVIL-/131158248933?_trksid=p2054897.l5659 The other is a 70# NC standard anvil for $278 including shipping from CentaurForge. http://www.centaurforge.com/NC-70-lb-Standard-Anvil/productinfo/18NC70/ The NC costs more, weighs a bit less, though it is shaped like a traditional anvil, and seems a bit more versatile. The one listed on ebay claims to be forged, The NC on centaur forge is not stated, though they do not say with their cliff carols which are a bit more, though more than i would like to spend if i can get the same weight at almost equal quality for $50 less. Which should i get?

thank you, your response was very informative, i think i will go with a pair of v-bit tongs and a pair of offset box tongs, as they look a bit more versatile than standard box tongs. Am I right in assuming so?

I am planning to purchase my nephew blacksmithing equipment for his 13th birthday, the forge is almost finished, i have a 75# anvil lined up, leather apron, am planning on getting a cross peen hammer, which i have heard is a good choice. Couldnt find a set of hot chisels online, so a hacksaw will have to work for now. He is looking forward to learning knife forging, and already has some experience under his belt. However I am not sure what type of tongs would be a good choice. There are so many types i have no idea which would be ideal. Any help would be greatly appreciated.