vern509

Welcome! Using that forge myself, just be sure to make sure you keep the propane line well out of the line of fire. Too easy for it to get hot if the line is allowed to run unsupported from the forge to the tank.

Using a similar saw, like other have said the issue with the base flexing is real, it causes the blade and cut alignment to shift. I can hear a shift in tone when it happens. And mine seems to run best when kept cool, so lots of small bites. (Not really adding anything new, just confirming the advice given above, especially about the abrasive cut off saw).

Twigg, making your own shelf brackets for storing scrap is a great project!

Dont forget the good ol craigslist. I try and search a few times a week for "helper springs," "leaf springs," and "suspension parts." The unused helper springs are the best! Also, if you go to the junkyard, take a look at the older f150/f250s. A lot of them will have an "over load" spring on the rear, those are great as well! And I know you dont like calling, but I know several junk yards that have "yard guys" (thats a loose term) that for $20 or so will pull the parts you want for you. Not free, but for less than $50 you could have enough scrap to get your skills where you want them to be and start using your good stuff. Its still free to run a want add on craigslist and FB marketplace, start there too. And like everyone else has said, a dozen good doughnuts is your best friend.

I am a little late to the party, but very glad to hear that you are ok!

Ok, closer than most If you ever come this way give me a shout, welcome to stumble along together.

Welcome!! Not close to Ellensburg are ya?

Welcome! Be sure to read all the stickies, and if you ever come to central WA come say hi!

I really like how that came out, a lot of clean lines that work well together.

Welcome, hopefully you find the info you are looking for, there is an entire forum section on vises.

Nice! What kind of steel is it?

Gotta second that, a way to keep the forge and anvil outdoors seems wise. Could you extend the roofline or add on a lean to?

Different economies and markets, but if I were in your position I would go for it. Especially if he can throw in some extras to get you up and running.

Yup, saving my pennies for a grinder upgrade myself. But honestly, the best investment is using your time to practice with a purpose. Besides, my harbor fraud 1x30 hasnt wore out yet, and a new tool wont make me grind my bevels any cleaner. But it does look like a knife!

Have you asked him why he is selling, and what issues he had with it? A lot of time an honest answer to those questions will help me feel better about a purchase. I cant comment on price, but if it were in the Seattle market it would be in line with what others are asking. As others have said, my concern looking at it is the dished face. But the shoulders appear usable.