Hawks Hobby

14 minutes ago, Mikey98118 said:

It hurts me to ever suggest larger over smaller first forges, but in this one instance, you should listen closely to what is being suggested. Coffee-can forges are one of my favorite things, but they are the most use for jewelers and modelers. By increasing the size of that first forge up to a two-gallon helium or Freon cylinder, or a half-muffler oval forge, you will gain equipmant that you will NEVER outgrow. You may build larger forges for special use later on, but they won't replace it. Fuel costs money; will hotter means faster, it isn't cheap. When it comes to efficiency nothing trumps small. Also, hotter means a hotter shop

There certainly is such a thing as too many tools...for young people. Being forced to move every few years to follow your  career, is just a fact of life for your generation, and it costs big money to do that. Which brings us right back to making that forge small...but not too small. 

I have a helium tank from my daughters last birthday. I dont have a coffee can. Was going to but one but that is a good idea. I have to find the materials to do it. I know the answer to this question is here some where but what is best to line it with? That can be bought on line.

On 10/27/2016 at 11:12 PM, jcornell said:

Start small.

I am looking to make a small forge. I am wanting a coffee can forge pass through. Make some small gate locks or smash out a small knife an such. Dont need a sward for anything yet. Maybe if the zombies come but not today. LOL 

I had neck fussion surgery in July so I know I wont be doing any large projects any time soon. 

I would like to thank all of you for being so cool. I was not expecting this kind of welcome. Its great to know the people her are so helpful and willing to share. Thank you all for having me here. I look forward to learning and growing here with you fine people. 

7 hours ago, ThomasPowers said:

You are not too far from Balcones Forge, balconesforge.org , who could probably introduce you to folks much closer to you.  I'd look into talking with them and perhaps giving them a visit.

I checked the site out and it looks like they are not far from me at all. As soon as I am able I will make the short trip over and check out one of their meetings. Thanks.

I already have 2 shops. A 24x20 and a 30x40. I dont get rid of anything. No joke. But your right you cant have too many tools

Thank You. I will check them out.

I updated my location on my peofile. But I will post here as well. I am here in San Antonio Texas. 

Thank you. I posted this way too soon I am sure. Sorry everyone. I seen the topic about looking around before posting a question qfter I posted this question. I will look around and then if I dont see what I am looking for I will ask. Again Thank You for not bashing me. (LOL)

I am new to the whole idea of building a forge or making anything from one. So I guess I will start with a little about me. 

I am a creative person. I have a long history of mechanics not only auto but also aviation, robotics and heavy equipment. I also built houses and a lot of other jobs.

I have been looking around, reading and watching videos but not sure what forge is best for me. I want to start making knives and other small items. 

I have a large anvel and all kinds of tools. Maybe too many lol. So I know I dont have to buy tools any time soon. But the forge is my issue.

I dont want the forge to fail so I am looking for ideas on builting one that will hold up. Does any one have any info on a forge that will hold up to I am guessing 3000 F?