Until recently the only anvil in my shop was my bench vise. However I have recently acquired an anvil cut out of a short piece of railroad track. Its about 18 inches long with a horn and a flat cut on either end. I've been making knives by stock removal for a few years now but I'm just starting out in forging. Should I heat treat, or do anything else to, this anvil before I start hammering on it? Thanks for any advice.
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New Anvil Question
- Thread starter rwlbjr
- Start date
Stacy E. Apelt - Bladesmith
ilmarinen - MODERATOR
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Knifemaker / Craftsman / Service Provider
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My first anvil ( 45 years ago ) was a four foot section of RR track. I currently use an anvil for swords exactly like yours. It will do fine for the time being.The face is a bit narrow,but as far as the temper,it is probably fine.Check out your local scrap yards and metal recyclers. you might find a big piece of flat steel,like 6X12X4" or so, that you can use for your second anvil.Scrap steel should only run about 30 cents a pound.You might even find an anvil there.
Stacy
Stacy
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- Jun 17, 2001
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- 5,705
The more you use the RR track for an anvil the harder it will get. In the mean time keep your eye's open for a real one.