By securing these pieces, the hardie hole is a great tool that facilitates the bending of metal pieces and the hole-punching of forgings. This hole has a square-shaped mouth that allows blacksmiths to hold rod-like tools such as chisels or swages. The hardie hole of an anvil is typically located inside the surface of the face on the end opposite of the horn, also known as the heel. Using the appropriate metal-cutting tools may be a better method of achieving the same result. While this part can be used to cut work pieces on its edge, doing so can wear out its features if done often. The table’s height is slightly higher than the horn and lower than the face. The table is also often referred to as the step, which is a narrow flat surface located between the horn and the face of the anvil. This part of the anvil does not necessarily have to be as hard of a material as the face since it is mostly used for bending applications. This end looks very much like a horn and its curvature is best used to shape metal pieces into rounded shapes. The horn of the anvil is the pointed cone-like end that is typically considered the front of the anvil. Despite the fact that the face is not directly struck by a hammer, it is important that the face material can withstand heavy blows without breaking or losing its flat shape.

This surface acts as a stable base for striking metal workpieces, so it is the surface of the anvil that is most often used. The face of the anvil is the flat surface located on the top of its structure. Each of these unique parts are further described in the following sections. An anvil is made up of a face, a horn, a table, a hardie hole, and a pritchel hole. The different work surfaces and features of anvils each have their own names. Check below for current deals and prices on some top quality blacksmith anvil brands online: If there is a choice between new and old equipment, all other things being equal, we’d always recommend the new stuff, unless you’re looking specifically for something ‘worn-in’ for the aesthetic. Second hand was, and still is, a popular choice due to cost savings, but anvils have surprisingly become quite affordable in recent years and you can actually pick up brand new anvils from many online stores at great prices. The latter two are more likely to sell second-hand anvils, but as anvils are designed to withstand a huge amount of wear-and-tear by design, second-hand is rarely a bad choice so long as you know what you’re looking for (see more on this below). You can pick up new quality anvils from specialised retailers who focus on forging equipment, or even from popular online stores such as Amazon, Ebay or Cragslist. Where Can I Buy An Anvil? (Best Places to Purchase) In this article, we’ll cover the most common types of modern anvils, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each style in relation to blacksmithing and metalwork. Modern blacksmith anvils today are generally made of steel, consisting of more favorable metallurgical properties for modern uses and applications. As their function evolved with the times, they were created with stronger materials, such as bronze and wrought iron, especially during the Middle Ages. However, early iterations of anvils were simply slabs of stone used as surfaces that help shape a metal object. Anvils are essentially metal blocks that typically feature three different work faces to shape a workpiece in a variety of ways. Its serves as a sturdy, solid surface to work metal pieces.

1.4.9 6) Jewelers Anvils Anvils come in a variety of styles and weight classes, and it’s important to know what you need before making a purchase.Īn anvil is a critical piece of equipment that has been used in blacksmithing for centuries.

Antique anvils for sale