I just bought a 110lb Columbian anvil. When I went to purchase it there was a lot of rust obscuring the face, and other than some chips on the edge didn't look that bad. After bringing it home and some wire-brushing it appears that there might be a small crack coming from some of the chipping on the edge and extends about 1/2" towards the center of the face.

I've never chipped an edge on an anvil before but this crack concerns me. Should this be repaired before use? If so, what would be the correct way to repair it?  Or, should I just use it and if it eventually breaks repair it then?

Also quite strange, it appears that a piece of iron pipe made its way into the anvil during the casting process and can be seen as the crescent shaped spot on the face in the photos.

If the ring and rebound is consistent on the entire face, I would just use it. Repairing an anvil correctly would cost more than a new anvil in that weight range.

Anvil Restoration

My Columbians edges are worse and it works just fine. Yours looks to be in good condition so I assume it will be fine as is.

Thanks for the advice, I'll use it as is. I just don't want any future chipping so that this tool will last as long as possible.

 

Ive got some way uglier looking anvils than that, I think your gonna be alright… at least for another few decades of daily use before that dude will give you any problems!