Can I use a RR track for an anvil?

G

godogs57

Joined
Apr 16, 2004
Messages
795
Yes I know you can do it....does it make a pretty decent anvil I guess is what I am asking....

I have a 4' section of track that I can take to the local machine shop and get cut down to, what, 1.5' to 2', and then get the top surface ground to flatten it.

Is it worth the trouble? Will I have to harden the surface of the track after I get it ground flat?

Got a retiring bladesmith that has offered me his 275 -300 lb anvil for $300....it is in great shape. Obviously, that would be preferred, but I am a "hobby" forger at this time. Stock removal up until now. Getting my forge next week.

Just looking for opinions. Everybody have a great weekend.

Hank
 
I would get the big anvil for the 300 and never look back. you will never regret it and as long as it is a decent anvil and you take care of it it will always be worth more than $300. Work some side deal. make something sell something. Get the anvil
 
Do the math:
$20 scrap RR track+ $100 shop charge to make a 40 pound anvil worth about $50.
OR
$300 for a 275-300 pound anvil worth $750-1000.

It don't take a rocket scientist to figure this one out.
Stacy
 
if you dont buy the anvil ,i will . so will 90% of the others on the forum. a decent anvil will go for a min. of 3$ a lb. on ebay. than the buyer has to pay for shipping after that.
 
I found an "Antique"Store that has 100lb cast iron vulcans in crappy condition for $380-$500. It would be tempting to drive to Ga for a good anvil.
 
Grinding on the rail is a BAD ides. The top is work hardened by train traffic, grinding may [probably will in the center] expose soft core. Would take a LOT of hammering with a big sledge to reharden the head of the rail.
 
Thanks folks...I appreciate the advice.....Looks like I am going to have to come off 300 bucks soon. Have a great week!
 
Don't fret about the money. If you get in a tight jam, I'll buy it from you for $400.
Stacy
 
You will stay a hobby forger if you try to "get by" with a RR track anvil. If you get the big one, you will enjoy some really good hammering.

My anvils are 140# and 145#. That is about the minimum I'd advise anyone to use for forging blades. I started with a 70# anvil, and made a lot of knives on it before I finally got my 145# Trenton. I can't imagine ever being happy with the lighter anvil, but that is all I had access to at the time.

Go for the big one! You will learn better bladesmithing habits by working on a better anvil, and be more satisfied with your work.
 
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