May 3, 200917 yr I saw a used Mankel three burner forge yesterday that was for sale. $750.00 I know nothing about Mankel forges. It was open on three sides with a small blower. Having only started in blacksmithing one year ago, I am looking for a good propane forge, but wonder if it is more forge than I need and a three burner will surely suck up the propane. I'm sure it will get metal hot fast. Any info on mankel forges would help.
May 3, 200917 yr Dave, I would credit Ken Mankle with making the modern propane forges a reality. I have a Mankle Horseshoers special+4 that is over 30 years old and still used regularly (of course thats much like owning an ax that belonged to Abe Lincoln - it's had two new heads and eight new handles -- my forge has been converted from blower to atmospheric and has many new linings - the outer covering is still original, the valves are original). I believe Ken is retired now, but his forges are still being sold by Will Lent Horseshoeing Supplies. That said, the one you're looking at is overpriced. Will Lent lists it new at $865 and a two burner knifemakers special at $685. Just Google on Mankle forges or Will Lent Horseshoeing. For that matter Ken probably would be happy to talk to you 616-874-6955.
May 5, 200917 yr Author Jack: Thanks for the info. What was the reason for the conversion of you forge to atmospheric? And thanks for the phone number.
May 7, 200917 yr I'm a farrier and I couldn't keep the vents adjusted traveling rough roads. Atmospheric just worked better.
May 7, 200917 yr I have a Mankle 3 burner air blown forge I bought on EBay for $250....it was hardly ever used and came with a real nice cart. It definitely is a big gas forge so if you're not going to be heating up large pieces, it's a bit overkill. They are real nice forges though I wouldn't pay over $500 for a used one.
August 25, 200916 yr i love the style of forge and with a mod or two i will be making that type of forge,,,,,,mine may not look any where near as nice im sure, but the idea is great.
August 25, 200916 yr I forged with the 3 burner mankels running on methane at school. I personaly feel the diamondback artist forge is better for a non school setting. I picked mine up at diamondback. Dennis is a great guy with a great forge. Will be stoping to say HI soon. Ken
August 25, 200916 yr Not knowing what you plan to be forging makes it hard to say if this would be a good forge for you. Like me asking if this sports car would be a good one to get without telling you if I need a dump truck, a 5 child carrier, or just something to blow off steam on weekends.
August 29, 200916 yr mankel design.. i like that i can stick a piece of plate, or a corner of a gate or adj a large scroll or reduce the cavity to heat up a billet or long and thin or whatever....two bits of steel in a narrow gassy kept me on the hammer flat out. i hate work but it can keep workers busy.
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.