Champion Forge?

[JG Custom Metal Works]

Do any of you guys know about Champion forges? A guy is trying to trade me one for a vise that I have. He has it valued at $325:






The vise that I have that he wants is a Colombian 204 1/2 m2. It's a big ass pipe vise and is in great condition. The newer Wilton ones are going for like $920(I only paid $140). Here it is:








I already have a Atlas Mini Forge but am somewhat limited on space with it. I already have all the vises I need and could use the forge more than the vise. I've been trying to run down info on these Champion forges but I keep coming up with Buffalo forge stuff.

He says the forge is fully functional. I have a big bucket of Metal Rescue I could soak the blower in and I could take a wire wheel to the forge. Shouldn't take much to get rid of the surface rust.

What do you guys think, should I trade this guy? If anyone has info on Champion Forges I'd appreciate it.

 

[Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith]

Without closer pictures of the inside of the pan and tuyere it is hard to say, but it looks a little roached out. I use one similar to it for a decoration on my front porch with flowers in the pan.
Unless you are familiar with forging with coal/charcoal, and have the knowledge to fix the pan up for forging, I would pass on it.

 

[JG Custom Metal Works]

Without closer pictures of the inside of the pan and tuyere it is hard to say, but it looks a little roached out. I use one similar to it for a decoration on my front porch with flowers in the pan.
Unless you are familiar with forging with coal/charcoal, and have the knowledge to fix the pan up for forging, I would pass on it.

Thanks Stacy, just what I needed to hear.

 

[JMJones]

Coal forges are really easy to make, you really don't need to buy one and at $325, I would not even consider it.

 

[islandblacksmith]

that is a lovely looking bench vise!
two rows of brick and a pipe for the air makes a great charcoal forge, adjustable width and unlimited length...keep it simple...