Back to a Tim Lively charcoal washtub forge

[Billinthedesert]

Fifteen or 20 years ago I chanced upon Tim Lively's video, "Knifemaking Unplugged." The Neo-tribal blacksmithing movement was in its heyday. I was simply entranced with the simplicity and self-reliance of the concept. All that was needed was a small washtub, a length of pipe for the tuyere, some fireclay, wood ash and sand for the lining, an old hand-cranked blower from Champion or Buffalo or one of the other turn-of the century classic brands and some enthusiasm. It was to me the perfect introduction to blacksmithing, and while I have had propane forges since, I still look back with nostalgia on that hand-cranked washtub forge and sweet hiss and scent of charcoal glowing red. All I have currently is a couple of pairs of tongs and a Pedinghaus cross-peen hammer. I happened to see a Champion blower in good shape for a reasonable price on eBay and decided what the heck. I'm going to build another washtub forge. The blower should be here soon along with a Vevor English pattern anvil -- a 66-pounder which won't give me the service of my old 120-pound Trenton, but which will do for the simple objects within my minimal skill set -- coat hooks, steak flippers, door pulls, that sort of thing.
Here's a Youtube I did many years ago featuring that first forge. I think I will drive up into the Gila National Forest and gather some charcoal from our big Trout Fire burn scar. Nothing like free fuel.

 

[iron4lchemist]

That sounds like an awesome setup! A Champion blower combined with a washtub forge is such a timeless pairing. The 66-pound Vevor should be perfect for smaller projects like hooks and flippers. Honestly, there's just something unbeatable about using good old charcoal and a hand-crank for airflow when you want to get the job done. It really feels so authentic

 

[FPDoc]

Nicely done.. and.. the nice thing about a hand cranked blower is when you get called in for lunch.. your stuff doesnt all burn up..