[TheForge] Lightening the load

[Bruce .]

Well, the first real test of our lightweight forging equipment was a great
success -- except for the vise base plate which broke due to my lousy
welding.  We strapped the vise to a metal table and went with it.  (The
base plate won't be hard to fix.)  Two of us demonstrated outside a
historic blacksmith shop in the area, and despite the cold weather, had
some spectators most of the time.

The whole portable smithy set up in a few minutes and broke down nearly as
quickly, though I'm not yet organized enough to stow it in my car trunk.  I
used my little pickup truck.

The chief problem was the tools.  I need to work out a kit of tools --
forging tools and fire tools -- to bring along.  I had far and away too
many tools with me, massing just too much.

So, first thing is to consult all  you guys.  Have any of  you worked out a
kit of tools that works for you -- enough for most demonstrations, without
including too much extra or too many unnecessary tools?  I'd be interested.

Bruce
NJ