Loesch

First run testing of tire hammer I built. Largely based on Spencer and anvilfire pictures and any other photos or information I could find on the web. I wanted to take advantage of everything I could and using a hub assembly off the rear of a front wheel drive vehicle provided a brake system predesigned and fitted. 62 lbs ram weight, 800 lbs in anvil section, approx. 1200 lbs total as it sits (think I need to add a little more anvil weight as the ram came in above what I had planned), 1 hp motor at full rpm would be over 300 BPM but from the video it is obviously running slower than that. Still needing adjustments and tuning but I will wait until a proper guard is in place before using. I am waiting for full testing and tuning before painting unit. Current investment just under $700 USD which includes a spool of mig wire and a new tank of shielding gas. Video https://youtu.be/ZmwaUShvo9M

Yes, I have considered classes. Depends where I go with this. For now hobby level experimentation keeps me happy and busy.

Not looking to make a business out of this at least not in the near future. I have had several people who have seen what I have made so far express interest in having a custom blade made. I am a bit of an OCD perfectionist so I have politely declined at this time. If I make something to sell I desire for it to be of very high quality so for now I am just stacking up finished items or giving them away while I continue to learn. I am interested in Damascus but after making a dagger from layers I think this will have to wait for a power hammer or press build. Experimenting is great even with failure, so I have limited research to basic techniques, equipment, and safety. Benefit of this being hobby level for me is I have no pressure to be successful in every attempt so I can attempt and pursue off the wall ideas holding to sometime come up with a unique process or idea.

Hello, new member from near Wichita, Ks. I have only been playing with smithing for a few months but find it very rewarding and therapudic. Grandfather was a blacksmith but he passes when I was only 7 so I have always had an interest in the craft but been too busy with life until now. I admit the show forged in fire did respark my interest and bring me to where I am now. I built a modified version of the freon bottle mini forge, purchased a Oregon blade maker 2x72 belt grinder, and made a striking anvil from 2 - 60# blocks of steel. I have made 5 knives learning something with every one. Not looking to start a business just enjoying experimenting and learning something about how my forefathers made their tools.