July 16, 201412 yr Hey guys, I've got a 1968 #100 vulcan. It's pristine. No edge chipping. This was a storage unit queen haha. However, I don't know if it will hold up in the long run. Curious as to whether to stick with the vulcan, or go to a #150 tfs blacksmith anvil. Or any other recommendations.
July 16, 201412 yr Our school welding shop has a '68 Vulcan than has probably been in use the entire time. I like it because it is quiet, and does not bounce around. We have welded up the face (once), but if we ever manage to wear it out, we will be sure to let you know, maybe in another 45 years or so. -_- Seriously, this thing is going to outlive us all unless horribly abused. Is it the first anvil brand that I would consider if I won the lottery? No, but it is sooooo much better than a ASO or even a chunk of random A36 plate, that I would never turn one down.
July 16, 201412 yr Actually, I went back and looked, it is a '62, so it has made it past the half century mark. The first students to use that anvil have retired by now!
July 16, 201412 yr If you will be working large sections with heavy hammers/unskilled strikers then you probably want a different anvil If you will be working small sections with light hammers that will be perfect for you If you ask questions without providing necessary information you get Elvish answers "Go not to the elves for counsel, for they will say both no and yes"
July 16, 201412 yr Two digit number under the heel is weight (most common is 10 = 100 lbs), two digit number under the horn is the year. Never found a serial number on one, but never looked real hard, either.
July 22, 201412 yr Author Its been sold, and tomorrow will be replaced by a brand new #150 tfs blacksmith anvil.
July 22, 201412 yr There's nothing wrong with having two (or more) anvils. I think if I could have afforded it, I would have kept the Vulcan as well.
July 29, 201411 yr A flat disk or cup wire brush on a grinder will only further reduce the raised markings on a cast anvil, and smear the edges of stamp marks on a forged anvil. If clarity is what you are seeking, chemical paint stripper and a soft brush are the way to go, or perhaps a pressure washer for loose rust and dirt/grease accumulation, followed by hand wire brush.
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