Wanted to say "Hi". I'm just starting blacksmithing as a hobby and really love all the information here.
I have been retired for a few years and money is a real issue for me as it is for a lot of people. I live in a very rural part of California in the mountains East of Bakersfield and resources are slim. I enjoy working with my hands and am a competent welder.
I am in the process of putting together a gas forge using the 8 or so K26 fire bricks that have been sitting on the shelf in the back of my shop, and a home made propane forge burner. Fortunately we get home delivery for propane. My anvil is a 50 lb Harbor Freight special which I realize is not at all adequate. It's either that or a 2 foot chunk of rail. I should be able to pick up some side work cutting weeds this summer and am keeping my eye out for a decent anvil. Man, those things sure have gotten expensive, but you never know what you can come across.
Anyway, thanks for a great forum and all the information.
-Bill-