AFCrawford

Many thanks for all of your thoughts guys! Completely new to this, so still trying to familiarise myself with what's available. I found some RR track for a decent price, so planning to just start off with that. Hoping to customise it at some point (as I've seen in some older threads), but hopefully can get a forge together and get right into it this weekend!

Well, my wife discovered weighted stuffed animal door-stops, so I'm set in that department. Thanks for the feedback!

Hello all, I was wondering if I could get some thoughts on this little 25lb anvil (possibly ASO, I'll let you be the judges) I came across at a vintage market today. No markings/numbers on this at all, although there are those four bumps on the corners (photo 1). They almost look like rivets... I didn't have a bearing ball on me, so I'll have to head back this weekend sometime. Tried a rebound test with a 24oz ball peen which I had in the car. I wasn't thrilled with the rebound (less than 50%), but I'm wondering whether the weight ratio between the hammer and anvil would be throwing things off a bit there... Sound wise, I wouldn't say it had a super clear ring, but I'm honestly not entirely certain what I should be expecting as the few examples I have heard online seem to vary wildly. Similarly, I don't know what to expect in such a small anvil. Here are a few photos. I appreciate any thoughts you may have. He's asking $70. Just something to play around with and give to my 3 yr. old once he reaches a 'constructive whacking' stage. Cheers!

Thanks for your warm welcome, guys! Cheers! If I am ever in the Pittsburgh area I'll be sure to take advantage of that. Could end up almost anywhere in the English speaking world in the next 6 mos. or so, but will be sure to find local groups. I love the idea of simplicity (so does my wallet), and was planning to try my hand at hammers and tongs (the latter of which I have none). The Mästermyr chest naturally appeals to my Medievalist's sensibilities as a basic model. I have a number of Archaeologist friends who specialise in the Viking period in Northern Scotland. I had the chance to go on a few digs and handle some of the finds. Those Scandinavian craftsmen knew their metal for sure!

Hello All, Just moved to the States from Northern Scotland where I was getting a PhD in Medieval History. Now that I'm leaving the student life behind (small apartments, no money... etc), I'm keen to get started in blacksmithing. I have quite a bit of woodworking experience, but have been wanting to try my hand at metal for a while now. So far have 0 hours of experience, but many of hours of research, daydreams, and boundless enthusiasm. I've inherited a small collection of tools (including some hefty ball peen hammers), and have picked up a 25lb vintage anvil. At the moment I just want to get started by crafting a few more tools to build up my resources and experience (any suggestions would be greatly appreciated!) Planning to build a JABOD forge, although it will have to be a small one for now. In any event, chuffed to be here, and can't wait to get started! Anything you wish you had known before you picked up your first hammer? Cheers-- Alexander