[TheForge] RE: Smithing Question - Hold down

[Bob Ehrenberger]

When I need a hold down I use my saddle anvil in the hardy hole.  Just lift
it up slide the work under and give it a tap to tighten it up.  It only
takes about two seconds and the work is still hot.

I'm not sure I have the term right, but what I call a saddle anvil is a
piece of leaf spring that has been bent into an "n" shape and welded to a
post for the hardy hole.


Steve Austin had spring loaded hold down that is foot opperated.  It is fast
and easy to use but looked like it was in the way all the time when not in
use.  It might have had an easy way to move it out of the way but he left it
in place the day I was there.

Pat McCarty has a hold down made from a pipe clamp.  It just screwed down to
hold the work.

You can always just use a loop of chain with a heavy weight on it.

Robert Ehrenberger
Shelbyville, Mo.