[TheForge] Vice handle

[Walter Mullett]

The leg vice I was using in my inside shop had a replacement handle which
was a tool of some sort with a washer and cotter key on one end. Welded on
the other end was a 4"x4" wishbone shaped yoke made from 1/2" x 1-1/2".
That yoke  was always in the way when turned up so before I could sell it, I
told the new owner I would forge on a ball.  
 
Last night I welded on a ball using the yoke as my material. That probably
was a mistake because there was way more material then what I needed.  I
started by turning the yoke into a T then I cut off about 2" of excess
material on each leg.  The real problem was that since the yoke was
centered, I had to wrap each leg in the same direction. (An 'S' when looking
on end.)    Another problem was forging that much mass.  I ended up with a
2" ball and that was a lot to round up.
 
Everyday is another learning experience. Next time I won't be "frugal" and
use what's already there.   I'll collar the arm with the right material !!! 
 
Walt