I was not aware this forum even existed until yesterday. Not sure why I never searched for it, but, now that I think about it, I think most forums I belong to are relative to topics I have a fair working knowledge of, such as antique firearms.
I did some blacksmith work in high school and enjoyed it. Very rudimentary stuff. I wanted to get back into this, if just getting my feet wet could be considered having been in it at all. Thought I would get into it sooner, but living in a way too expensive area of the country and renting and being too mobile was not conducive to collecting a lot of tools, etc. Went back to school, am a veterinarian, now nearly 10 years out and nearly three decades from high school shop days. I have gone to auctions and such and have two lathes, 3 leg vises, some hammers, but no anvil yet (didn't pay $425 for the 93 lb non-pristine Peter Wright anvil at a local auction).
Major stumbling block: I live in a subdivision. Keeps the wife happy. Not so much me. Gotta get something better for my hobbies. No room for outbuildings or permanent forge. Pesky yuppie neighbours might find this offensive...
Nonetheless, I was recently offered a solid fuel consuming forge. Suposedly a good price, owner never used it and cannot now due to health. What do I look for in these, what should I look for, what's a good price, etc.?
Also, anyone near me do this? My only companion right now is Alex Beiler's book.
