So a question, as I have been researching for a while on this, is if you had a choice of any of the commercial forge manufacturers who would you go with?
The requirements for the forge would be:
1. Bladesmithing focused
2. Forging and Welding
3. Blades between 4" and 36"
4. Sub $800.00 USD
5. Venturi based atmospheric, no blower
6. Not homebuilt
I have looked into Chili, Atlas, Majestic, Devil Forge, NC Tools and the ebay. The ideas I have kicked around so far are the Majestic and Devil 2/3 burners, but relining them to suit my needs ( I am conscientious of hot spots, so would work the metal back and forth..take a bit more attention but not tobad) , and using firebrick at the openings if need to retain heat. Gas consumption is not "too" much of a concern as this is a hobby, not a business. I will be looking into larger than 25# propane systems as well.
I was 3 seconds from placing my order tonight but I keep going around in circles on this. I want to be beating metal soon, instead of just grinding stock.
If you had to do it with the above requirements what would you go with?
Sorry for the random first post, I have been chatting with all the chat guys for a couple weeks now