Want2Forge

SReynolds, ThomasPowers,

Thanks for the responses, gents.

I have seen so many different products on difference websites. Im lost when it comes to choosing a quality forge. Any recommendations? This will be a garage op, and in an extremely restrictive county in SoCal.

For protective gear, FR hybrid or traditional thick gauge leather?

Anvils and hammers, preference leans towards French and German anvils/hammers..Pro/cons of each? recommendation?

I am a pretty husky guy, 6'1 290lbs 24%bodyfat... what weight hammer would fit me? I dont want too heavy where I gas out...dont want too light so it takes 4 times the work.

For quenching...Ive heard about oil..what type of oil is used? Water quench too? Then there is clay, muriatic acid and ferric chloride...

A lot of info and products, hard to pick through with no knowledge on whats best suited for beginners.

On another note...

ThomasPowers, good to see a Texan here, got family in Texas..NE of Denton.

Hey everyone,

I have always wanted to forge metal- make axes, knives, eventually work my way to swords. Maybe some other little knic-knacs for outdoor use.

I know there are basic tools and setups for people, like me, that are new to this... but I did not like the "kits" offered out there.

Any recommendations for starting up this craft? I am looking to start with gas forge, not coal.

Thanks in advance.