Cool Mini Forge

D

drysideshooter

Joined
Dec 6, 2011
Messages
244
I apologize if this has already been done. I did a search and didn't find it, so thought it might be worth posting.

I am wanting to build a small forge, just big enough for knife blades. I looked at the plans for the common burners that can be built for propane, and utilizing fire bricks. Then I came across this website and this really cool looking, very simple gas powered forge. I think I am going to build one.

Here is the website:

http://zoellerforge.com/miniforge.html
 
There are a couple mini-forges out there. Zaph makes one called the Atlas Mini Forge,that is being sold by Tracy at USA Knifemakers Supply.
Larry Zoeller make good products, too.
 
I've been doing a lot of research on the subject recently and would like to recommend a couple torch heads. Both put out a considerable amount of heat compared to other torch heads. Both can easily achieve upper forging temps, but both also fall short on welding temps. I'm experimenting on a dual burner using these to achieve the forging temps, but don't have test results yet because I don't have enough experience forging to judge the results. Both are available on Amazon.com and in most big box hardware stores.
BernzoMatic JT680
MagTorch MT245C
 
I just looked at the Atlas mini forge at Knifemakers supply. Pretty cool looking unit. I have never owned a forge, but as my 12 year old son has expressed a lot of interest in knife making I really want to get one. Would something small like the Atlas be big enough for heat treating blades up to the size of an average bowie? If my son and I progress to the point of wanting something larger for more ambitious work it seems like having a smaller forge might still be cool to have around anyway.

There is a company in Portland Oregon that makes some nice looking forges that seem popular in our area, and they have two models designed for knife work that look pretty nice.
 
The one-brick forge that you may have heard about does a very basic job also.
I took that basic idea and used 2 firebricks, as I have seen others do.
It's works well so far. I can get old Nicholson files to non-magnetic at least, so it does get hot.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top