[TheForge] Hammer on clay soil (Was: make shift anvil) YAK

[Chuck Robinson]

Hey Pete,
Have you read "THE CONTROL OF NATURE" by John McPhee?
The Chapters about the geology of your area, will scare the heck out of you.
I suspect the Clay in your area is the same Marine Clay.
You might want to dig a couple of test holes to check for the mesquite
creosote layer he talks about.

For what it's worth, you might consider replacing your power hammer with an
"H" frame hydraulic press for heavy forging, and a small air hammer for
drawing, etc.
The HP will do an amazing amount of heavy stock reduction with no impact on
your soil except for the weight of the press.
You might also research the possibility of using a high durometer Sorbothane
Elastomer matt under the steel base plate to absorbe the impact vibrations
of the air hammer.
Chuck