Should I buy this Anval?

[Night Rider]

I just recently started making knives and KSO's by doing simple stock removal with my DIY bench sander and a paint can forge but now I want to start moving some metal and make one from a billet. The problem is due to the popularity of Forged In Fire it has become near impossible to find one for sale that won't cost an arm and a leg to buy. Anvals are selling them for upwards of 10 bucks a pound in the New England area if you can find one for sale. I have been toying with the idea of making an I beam ASO but I would rather start out with the proper tool. My question is, Would you pay 400 bucks for this Anval? And is this one repairable or should I just keep on trolling till I find the right one. I have access to welding equipment but would it be worth it for me to do so on this 125 pounder?

Please feel speak freely and tell me what you think because I am in no rush and flea market season is starting soon here in the boston area.

 

[afishhunter]

It is repairable if you have access to a mill to level the deck, and remove/square up the damaged area for a patch.

Would I pay $400 for that anvil?
Not even if I needed one.

Don't forget: Your time spent to repair/recondition it is worth something, not to mention what you will have to invest for the materials required to recondition it.
Those costs should be added to the purchase price.

I'd keep looking. There is a good chance you can find another antique/vintage anvil in better condition for less.


Try farm tool and equipment auctions, and estate sales for a passed on farmer, blacksmith, or machinist.
I rather doubt ePry will have anything that isn't over priced, "Local Pickup Only" or that the shipping costs would not be prohibitive.

 

[jp9mm]

Not sure how big you really need but theres some 55lb on ebay for 75 shipped.
Years ago i remember people were bidding up old anvils at local auctions as well.
I guess it depends how long you want to wait, i'd probably buy something cheaper while i continue a search for the perfect one / deal

 

[Tony_A]

If you're willing to give up a little weight, you can buy a brand new NC Tools knifemaker anvil for $350-ish shipped. FWIW, they're real anvils, not the "anvil shaped object" sand cast trash from harbor freight and the like.