Malleus

I typically have a 'no borrow' policy. That means me borrowing from someone else, or someone else borrowing from me. I have too much money and time invested in my tools and equipment for someone who didn't bother to do the same, to tear them up. There's only 1 or 2 people who I would allow to borrow my stuff. Those people would let me do the same. Anyone else, I just flat out tell them no. I tell them I've been burned too many times to continue doing that. Some people understand, and others get mad. Specialty tools are an exception, but usually, people that don't have tools, don't have them for a reason.

I had some time to sleep on it, and I wanted to go ahead and secure these anvils, so I made my decision. Like JHCC said, the difference in weight will likely not be enough to matter much. That being said, I went with my gut feeling and got the double-horn. I sure appreciate your thoughts and input! It will be a while, but I'm really looking forward to seeing these when they get here.

I definitely understand. I saw a video of a master bladesmith in Japan forge out an absolutely amazing knife on a small square block of steel. Looked like it wasn't much more than 6"x6". Personally, I've found myself to be fairly adept at getting the job done with little resources. However, I find it satisfying and enjoyable to splurge on some tools of the trade when economically feasible. Like they say... you only live once, and you can't take it with you.

I'm glad to hear that the price isn't really out of line. I was a little concerned I might be over-paying, but then again, my previous comment on paying up for quality still stands. Also glad to hear the pitting isn't much of an issue. I don't know if this applies, or if it might have a desirable effect, but I thought it might give the work piece a little grip. Of course... if that were true, they would probably all have that incorporated into the design.

Yeah, it's always good advice to check things out before using them, but if you dig deep enough, you can find problems with almost anything. (although, some stuff is definitely worse than others) One good example that comes to mind, is the ruination of the swastika. Before the Nazis ruined it, it was thought of as a symbol of luck and good fortune. Now... not so much.

I don't really care much for the rinky-dink ones, but I'm always on the hunt for the large ones, or the Cadillac types. Lately, I've been wanting some of the larger variety. Don't really need them... it's just in my male DNA. This is too much, but it's cool to look at..

I guess that would make me look smarter, but truth be told, I was unaware until your mention of it.

I grew up not too far from Pigeon Forge in Southeast Tennessee. I live in Nashville now, but my wife and I (often with friends) usually go to Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg at least twice a year. It's kind of like a local mecca for Blacksmiths and other 'rustic' type activities. In many local businesses, you will see hand-made knives from local Blacksmiths in the area. Some of these Blacksmiths have classes you can schedule for half a day, full day, or even a weekend. One that comes to mind is Mohr Custom Knives. IIRC, their shop is about 30 minutes from Pigeon Forge. Also, while you're in the area, a cool place to stop is Smokey Mountain Knife Works. It's in nearby Sevierville, and I stop there pretty much every time I pass through. If I'm not mistaken, it's the largest knife store in the country. As far as Dollywood goes... I also have some PTSD, and it didn't bother me to be there. It's actually a pretty decent and laid back place. But, better safe than sorry, I always say. The Log Cabin Pancake House in Gatlinburg is a great place to eat breakfast. It's very hard to get in during the busy season, but you shouldn't have any trouble in March. Also, if you don't mind a little nip every now and then, try a tasting at Ole Smokey Moonshine. It's a pretty fun experience. Hope you have a safe and fun trip. Report back and let us know how the trip goes.

First of all, I really hate to hear of your misfortune. I've heard things similar to this time and time again, and I grow so weary of hearing the crappy people getting away with it. I realize this isn't much help, but whenever catastrophic things happen in my life, I try to tell myself that Everything Happens For A Reason. We often do not know why at the time, and it sometimes seems like there could be no good reason. I'm not saying it works out this way all the time, but sometimes, some of the most horrible things that happen to us, turn out to be for the better. (whether we know it or not) Also, anytime someone gets bad news, there is usually someone else getting worse news. Not that I would wish that on anyone, but it helps to know that you're not alone. I hope things look up for you, and you can get past this. Take care!

Malleus is Latin for "Hammer"

I love the fact that these cordless tools are so convenient these days. However, it is a double-edge sword. (no pun intended) A battery powered cutoff wheel is definitely a thief's best friend. While I love convenience, I hate to see it made easier for a thief. As for the cordless stuff, my only experience is with DeWalt. Honestly, I have no complaints with it. Though, I have heard and read that comparable Milwaukee impact drivers have much more torque than their DeWalt counterparts.

Thanks for your opinion, and the advice. I will definitely keep the steel stand with silicone in mind. I was thinking about adding small but heavy duty steel castors to the bottom of the stand so I can easily roll them around my shop. I wonder if the small amount of pitting on the double-horn is something I should be concerned with?

First of all, I appreciate your opinion. Now... I'm not saying the price is good, but the double-horn is $1310, and the single-horn is $1381. Yes, that's expensive, but what's not these days? I'm the kind of person that would rather spend more money on something I love, than try to save money and not be happy with it. I've heard Frosty and others talk about how loud the Soderfors can ring, but I will probably mount it to wood, and I've got plenty of chain to wrap around it. I also have other anvils I can use if noise becomes a concern. I like the idea of a heavier anvil, but I also feel that double-horns have a slightly more useful design. Of course... it all boils down to what you like, and what you're doing. I must say, I'm leaning toward the double-horn at this point, but still want to hear what others have to say.

So, I am buying 2 more anvils. The one I've already decided on is Refflinghaus. Now, I'm trying to decide between these 2 Soderfors, and I wanted to see what you guys think. One is a 225 lb. double horn(1922). The other is a 315 pound single horn (1932). The price difference is negligible. I know Frosty loves his Soderfors, so I'm hoping he will chime in on this. Here are a few pics... And the single horn...

I think you're right! I didn't plan it. It just sort of happened...

Nice! Looks like you got a good deal. I also like that Parker Vise!

Thanks!

Thanks!

Yes, looks Russian to me. Definitely not Western European.

Thanks! It sure is!

Couple years back, a guy was flipping an abandoned house in my co-workers neighborhood, and I noticed a bunch of junk piled up by the street. I spoke to the guy, and he said I could have whatever I wanted. Long story short... I got this older Wilton vise that had been stored in the garage... right under a hole in the roof. UGGHH!! It looked pretty bad, but I decided to carry it home anyway, just in case I could use it for parts, or possibly bring it back to life. I ended up storing it in my grandmother's basement ever since. (probably 5 years or so) I finally got around to bringing it back home and messing with it. It was frozen up solid, but with some kroil and a big hammer, it finally relented. I haven't even put any grease on the screw yet, and it's smooth as silk. Here are some before and after pics. I really like this thing. Wish I could find more of these!

Yep... thanks for the correction. I haven't stick welded in several years, but I shouldn't have forgotten something like that.

I definitely understand about the American made stuff. I'm the same way. I've had this one in storage for years, but figured I would drag it out. I'm sure it will come in handy when I need something on a different angle. Maybe if I only use it for those situations, it will last. Life's too short to keep your vises in storage.

I'm not big on Chinese products, especially tools. However, I've kept this one around because it has a feature I occasionally find very handy... the jaws will swivel 360 degrees. It's a little older, and a little better quality than your typical Chinese stuff. I also like it because it was free!

It's a sad thing, becoming too old/feeble/disoriented to do the things we love. I find myself hoping more and more that some form of reincarnation is real. A lot of my tools and equipment have come from estate sales, and I get a small amount of satisfaction know that they have found a good home (albeit temporary), and that the previous owner might approve of the care their tools are given.