[TheForge] Using rail was Treadle Hammer Anvil Stand

[robert hensarling]

Dave, thanks again.  One last question please;  what do you prefer to draw 
the billet out to?  Do you make multiple sizes, or do you make something 
like .75" x .75" stock?
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David E. Smucker" <davesmucker at hotmail.com>
To: "Blacksmithing List Sponsored by ABANA" <theforge at mailman.qth.net>
Sent: Tuesday, June 10, 2008 8:49 AM
Subject: Re: [TheForge] Using rail was Treadle Hammer Anvil Stand


>I usually cut a section from 6 to 8 inches in length.  Sometimes a little 
>longer.  6 to 8 inches is easy to get up to forging temperature for the 
>whole length.  I will also clamp a pair of vise grips to the handle a few 
>inches back from the section of rail head.  This makes holding and working 
>under the power hammer safer and easier to handle.  You put the vise grips 
>on, or use a pair of tongs, just as you come out of the fire.  This way you 
>can have one hand close to the work, without cooling the handle.  I also 
>wear a heavy Kevlar glove when working this way.  That big hunk of metal 
>gives off a lot of heat.
>
> Dave