Chris Paul

Thanks Fellas, I'll try again hotter next time.  Will also preheat my dies.  

Chris

It's possible there were a few small localized spots where the steel got cooler than I would have preferred while in the press.  The dies were not preheated.  I'd say low orange / high red heat on the last squeeze.  Really only used the press to straighten.   

Here you go - thanks.

CP

Any help on how I can avoid this failure in my next attempt at forging chisels will be greatly appreciated. 

The material I'm using is new 5160 1" round bar.   Using a gas forge with temp control, hammer and press for forging.   After forging I did 2 normalizing / thermal cycles, first one at 1600, then one at 1550, soaked for 10 min each.   I let them cool to the touch before the next cycle.  Quench was done in 120 deg canola oil.   

Both chisels show longitudinal cracks. 

What did I do wrong? 

Thanks Anvilman - I found a post earlier, might have been on anvilfire, featuring a mystery anvil that the owner had acquired as an 'Army anvil' . . . it was identified as a Fisher from the same era, and I thought it sure looked familiar. Those 2 lug holes are one of the specific features of Fisher's from 62-79, is that correct?

On another note, I just measured the bounce height with a 7/8" ball bearing. I measure about 90%, so I'm a happy feller (dropped from ~40cm, bounces ranged from 36 - 38cm). Enjoy the sideways video.

Chris

IMG_0141.MOV

I just bought this 130 lb Fisher anvil - was amazed at the condition when I saw it. Can anyone help me determine when it was made? No date markings that I can see, only the '130' on one front foot and the numbers '071' on the rear center. It was painted some time ago, not sure when. Yikes - pics make it look pink rather than the cherry red it actually is.

Thanks for any help!

Chris