[TheForge] ABANA membership

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>"David R. Crowell" <gpfarm-dave@northnet.org>
 what about the cost
>of hammers, tools, anvils, coal, propane etc?  Last I checked a new power
>hammer could run five grand or more, this is not an inexpensive hobby.



david,

i have always thought than blacksmithing is one of the cheapest hobbies there is. at least the kind of hobbies where you can make stuff like woodworking etc.

a powerhammer is handy but you don't really need one to do good work. a simple gas forge a chunk of rail and a hammer and a vise and you are in business. well under $500...under $100 if your handy.

most hobby guys today have better shops than most "real" blacksmiths thru history.

i used to work with a guy that bought a special boat to water ski behind. he spent $20,000 (for the boat) to ski up and down the river. now that's an expensive hobby.

bob schade