Chase N.

Thank you for your advice  it's 5:30 am and I've been doing a lot of research about the process, I still need to learn a lot of the terminology, but I am not deterred! I hope to learn a lot, I'll probably visit a library and checkout a couple of smithing books to learn a thing or two but with your advice I'll go through my steps and maybe you guys could offer criticism. I'm not necessarily rolling in cash with my little job, but I'll still try to get those items 

Also, what size/type anvil should I get? 

I was looking more into plate armor, and I don't have much metal work experience outside of the welding I've done, I'm 18

Ok, I'll look into it, thank you!

I meant the front rim  it's about 2 1/2 ft in diameter, the gear is for friends, but they're willing to give me some funding, how do you recommend I start armorsmithing? And what materials do you prefer?

Ok, I updated my location, but I don't have a 55 gallon drum, but I may be able to get one

Hello all, I've browsed through the the stickies and its information and found some insightful work! Everyone on here is so nice and I'm eager to pursue this hobby. I wish to create armor and weapons for me and my friends for their SCA battles (likely not using said weapons). I have experience in welding, receiving a certificate in gas metal arc welding. I'm following up on some leads to get an anvil for free or cheap. And I have a barn of tools, I also have a large deep tractor rim that I can use as the forge. Any recommendations for a novice at black smithing? I am eager to hear advice