Free anvil (well 2/3 of one anyway)

[Kevin McGovern]

My neighbor gave me what you see below. I can find no markings on it, but he stated it was his grandfathers, so I'd say at least 60 years old. the back part is broken off and it has been painted black. The top is not very flat and has scarring. I'm looking to see your take on if it will be suitable for knife work. I would like to flatten the top, but i'm not sure how to go about doing that. any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[DevinT]

That thing is 100 years old. Use a nine inch disk grinder, hold flat on the surface and you'll get it flat.

It probably broke when the road runner dropped it on coyote, must be an acme.

Hoss

 

[JMJones]

and make sure not to grind too much of that top plate off, that's the hardened face.

 

[Kevin McGovern]

Thanks gentleman. I think it's a mouse hole anvil? It has a mouse hole shaped holes on the toe and horn ends. About mid way up.

 

[Geoff Flato]

The few anvils I've flattened have been with a snagging (cup) wheel on a 7/9" angle grinder. Clean the surface up after with a flap disc

 

[Lieblad]

Virtually all anvils of its timeframe have those holes. Its easily 100 years & probably closer to 150.
They are called "handling holes". Its where the giant tongs gripped the anvil as it was being manipulated in & out of the fire and under the hammer.
Anvils like yours are often forgewelded separate sections. Horn, heel, waist are usual welded sections.
Broken at that point is not all that uncommon.

There is plenty left on that anvil to forging knives & trinkets, but pretty whanged up so its basically scrap value.
No harm in taking a wheel to it and see if you can clean up enough room to work with.
Dont try for overall perfect flatness. Its not needed, & alot of work.