For most knives a 5 gal metal bucket with a lid works fine. If the oil flashes, just put the lid on and the fire goes out.

 

4 hours ago, Irondragon ForgeClay Works said:

Did you see the episode where one of the runner up contestants (an experienced bladesmith) was using  a fiberglass makeshift horizontal quench tank for a long sword inside his shop and it caught on fire. 

I did see that. Propane tank right there and all. 

In for a penny in for a pound as they say. Why make little mistakes if you're being watched by millions? 

Frosty The Lucky.

Another reason I’ll never be on that show (apart from my general lack of skill, that is).

I don't see lack of general skill being a barrier for contestants.

Frosty The Lucky.

I’m talking about my own standards, not theirs. 

Well . . . THERE'S your problem. You want to apply standards to FIF?     

Frosty The Lucky.

Unless you are making a machete, a half gallon of Canola oil pre-heated to around 130 degrees Fahrenheit will work. Almost any cracker box sized, sheet metal container will perform admirably. I myself used an a spent welding rod box and a estate sale hot plate for years until my projects out grew it. A little searching and $10 bill will get you there. 

No, I apply standards to myself. This why I’m perpetually unsatisfied. 

Better than being dissatisfied. 

Frosty The Lucky.

I was worried that you were expecting standards from TV!

Well said JHCC,  I strive for outstanding in my creations but often my skill sets are lacking to achieve that goal. As for FIF. What can I say. Its entertaining and yet frustrating.. Its tests are outlandish but as demonstrated by show after show, they are survivable. I've been amazed by the quality of some weapons and shocked at what others have turned in. It caused an explosion in the number of bladesmiths.  Some are making quality blades while others are passing off junk.. Lastly it has tended to give potential customers unrealistic expectation of the blades we make, the time it takes to create, and costs.  They expect the indestructible, in two days and all that under 50$. But like I said its entertaining. 

Of course I expect standards from TV. That's like wishing someone "luck," without specifying what kind of luck. 

Frosty The Lucky.