Dave Hammer

You mentioned the fan in question is 1/4 the price of the blower you really want. If you can buy from Grainger, you can get a very good blower (115V, 134 CFM) from Grainger for about $56 (Online catalog price). I believe the Grainger number is 2C647.

I was referring to the Photo Gallery on Forgemagic.com - Welcome. I'm not sure how often he reads/posts, but I'm sure he would answer questions if he sees you post over there. He is an amazing talent. Click here to go to the image

Jim Keith, a blacksmith in New Mexico (I think), made a fist. He reads (and posts occasionally) on ForgeMagic.com. You can find a picture and short description of his project in the Photo Gallery (under "Jim K").

From my point of view, an acceptable height for an anvil depends upon what type of forging you are doing. If you are doing primarily heavy blows during forging, a knuckle height is probably optimal. If you tend to use lighter blows, or are learning Uri Hofi forging techniques, or are having arm or back problems, the anvil should be higher. How high is a personal thing. You should experiment. It helped me to move my anvil up almost to where my wrist bends (within an inch or so).

The business still exists in the same location. The name of the business may have changed. Relatives of Bill are running it. Blacksmithing is not the primary emphasis anymore, but, as of early this spring, there were still items of interest to blacksmiths in the basement, and another storage facility. I'm not sure what is still there now. You might try calling 302-539-5334 to reach the business (or someone involved with it). If you don't get an answer, leave a message and call more.

Google "electrolytic derusting". This method uses water, soda, a tub of some kind and a battery charger. It works. Be sure you brush your object, spray it off with water and coat it with something as soon as you are satisfied with the process.