I certainly wouldn't want to lose the close up anvil shots no matter what forge your using...You do a great job of indicating where and how to hit...Losing that would detract alot from your channel...Showing someone hitting something with a hammer is all well and good but those close up shots that show it more precisely are what makes your videos very educational.
Personally I enjoy the gas forge work. Mainly because I don't have access to a coal forge. I do however think that you should be forging on whatever you think fits your project and what inspires you to create content. As a content creator I'm sure you would sometimes hit a creative block and I think having fun with it is more important to help keep good content flow. Either way I watch all your videos and learn a great deal so thankyou for your excellent work so far.
Personally I built my forge using a car rotor and a hair dryer, if you have a tractor supply near you they sell nut coal (anthracite) i hope this little bit of information helps you out friend
Loved how you worked the steel tube to the shovel handle, it worked wonderfully and gave me ideas for some of the garden tools i have. Thank you for sharing!
I started watching your channel because my 9 year old nephew has an interest in blacksmithing and if that carries over into his teen age years I want to be prepared. I continue to watch because you’re an excellent teacher and I like your style of walking us through your projects. To me, seeing the old ways are important but in the end I don’t care what you use to work just so long as I can watch you work.
John, personally I think you should do what makes your work more efficient. That being said I work in a coal forge haha. But if a ribbon burner forge makes your work and videos more efficient then do it. We blacksmiths find a way to do all the same thing. It’s our way.
That, sir, is a work of art❤ I need so many different tools on my homestead, and most of the store bought ones eventually break or the darn handles come loose so I’m constantly having to rig up some remedy or grab my JB Weld. Watching this video through with the forging and handle building (that handle isn’t going to move!❤) has given me hope that I might become “tool self-reliant” someday. THANKS SO MUCH!
Thank you for all your videos, for me I only use coal but your videos always show more than 1 way to get the work done . Please use which ever method you see fit . We will continue to enjoy all of the teaching and hard work you give us. 😄
Man. I went back and watched some of your early videos... it is AMAZING how far you've come with your presentation, editing, composition, all of it! The reverse shot of you working with the forge in the background was awesome! Keep up the good work!
In my photographic studio we've eliminated tripods completely and use a ceiling mounted articulated arm from Manfrotto. We mount cameras, lights and microphones to the same rig and there are no floor vibrations. I'm sure you could easily make one for yourself from the pic in the Manfrotto catalogue. I also like the gas forge.
The choke collars look nice, but the same goal can be acheived with some pipe clamps at a much lower cost... unless of course someone sends them to you for free. Next build, a ceiling gimble mount for your camera.
I would like to see wood charcoal in the solid fuel forge. Selfishly, I choose that because as a beginner, that is what I am working with. I am also looking forward to the ribbon burner build even if it is more complex with electronic blowers and gas safety cut off features. We grow through your generosity. Thank you for the most precious gift - your time.
I just found Your chanel today . You remind Me of the way I imagine My Grandfather was ( He died a few mo. before I was born ) . He was a blacksmith too ( among other things ) .
Just my humble opinion but to me your safety and preference is the important part. The information is appreciated and in theory will translate no matter which forge is used. Right to for the right job. Thank you
John I really enjoy the coal forge only because that's what I've setup. But in the end it's your way you show and explain what you're doing when you're doing it. Love what you do for us how are in need. Thanks
I have to say that as I grew up we had only a coal or coke forge, no gas. But I like that Black Bear Forge can use one or the other. I like seeing solid fuel forging, but if you switched to solely gas forging I’d be just as happy. On the subject of cameras, floor space is precious. Hang a metal grid from your ceiling - or almost as handy, hang several strategically placed metal pipes from your ceiling. Then, mount the cameras (and lighting) from the overhead pipes. I worked in television for a number of decades, mounting equipment from overhead was standard practice and therefore the equipment to do so is readily available. But there are other (somewhat limited) options for floor mounting camera and lighting equipment. At one station, holes (several holes) had been drilled into the floor and lined with metal pipe. Another pipe was inserted as sort of a semi-fixed monopod. Not the greatest plan, but it worked. (TV stations often have non-permanent sets. Sets would be moved more than cameras or lighting equipment.) Whatever you do, keep up the great work.
John, I love your channel. I know this video is a year old, but I'm commenting anyway. I got the forging bug watching Forged in Fire, but as I turned to TH-cam, I discovered your channel. I appreciate your respect for your craft/art. Your down to earth attitude and humble manner. You do make it look easy. (Which it isn't) I find myself looking at old rusty metal in a whole new way..... "What can I make out of this?" Right now I'm still acquiring and thanks to your example making my tools. Tongs, punches and drifts. Among other things. I still use a brake drum forge with a blow dryer. I worked for 36 years in the western coal mines. So I'll probably stick with coal since it's readily available. I know Anthricite (cokeing coal) is preferred, but here in south East Utah I have access to high BTU, low sulfur coal and it's free. (It helps having friends and family still "diggin coal" that keep me supplied. You'd be surprised how much coal you can get in trade for a tomahawk or candle stick. Please keep up the good work. God Bless. Bert
I have two similar things, one made fro an old lawnmower blade and the other made from an edger blade. They lated for more than a decade of everyday wear and tear doing landscaping work. I love this design
I made one out of an old double ended spring plough point back in the ‘80s. I only put a short handle on it to use as a small mattock (grubber). It’s served me well all that time. I love you design though. I may have to try making it too. I have an old charcoal forge I built that nearly buggered so I upgraded it to a gas one. I find it heats faster and is definitely cleaner in the workshop. Thanks for the videos. As a amateur blacksmith, I have learned so much from your videos.
I just switched from coal to propane and I have to say it makes a world of a difference. Just being able to turn the gas in and forge is really nice. It's also a lot easier to control the heat and it's heats the metal more easily in my experience.
When I drive a tool onto a handle (as taught to me by my father) I hold the handle upside down and forcefully hit the butt end of the handle with a large hammer. This will draw the tool on to the handle tighter than you would ever expect with no chance of damaging the tool. This works for hammers, axes, pitch forks, hoes, you name it. Thanks for showing the technique of shrinking the tube and posting.
My son and I watch your videos as often as we can. I save the ones we really like in a file named instructions. Not sure how much longer I will be able to work because of health issues. He is like me and can learn by watching then doing. He has already gotten orders for some hooks you inspired. He didn't copy them but instead used your idea and made them his own. We got a huge pile of different size rebar scrap and old bed frames and he has been going to town on it. He is only 15 but is learning fast. Our time is spread out between that teaching him to weld( I got him a Lincoln stick welder, oxy acetylene, a power mig 215, and a small flux core welder) I have been focused on making him tools, tongs, punches, chisels, and anything else I think of. We also do metal detecting, and plant crops on our small 5 acre farm. We produce on average about 25k of food a year but this year are about double what we usually do. We also do jewelry and Native American crafts. He is Mi'kmaq, Choctaw on my side and Northern Ponca and Lakota on his mothers side. Lufe is pretty full here on our little farm. We really appreciate your videos. If you ever have time you can find him on TH-cam at FireFlyGuys.
I absolutely love you work. I try to catch every video and I’ve seen nearly all of your previous videos. You do an excellent job of explaining what you are doing and why, and as a novice it is super helpful. Keep up the content, sincerely me and my small group of forge enthusiasts!
I love coal/solid forges, it is the old school blacksmith feeling. But I agree with some that you should choose the right tool for the job, time or money. I like your channel because of the projects, tips, videography and you as a person.
this is such a great channel, your filming quality and content are excellent, as are your flanders mustache and massive forarms. I've only seen like 4 of your videos so far and I've learned a ton, Thank you for the help :)
A garden tool that any gardener would be proud to use! 👍 I find that putting the gas forge behind me is pretty efficient. That would allow you to use either if you just leave the gas forge on lockable casters and roll it out of the way when done with it. Do what ever works for you. I'll enjoy your videos either way! BTW... Your videos are much more pleasant after you potted you anvil! 👍
Solid fuel for the win. I have both, but enjoy the smart heat options of my solid fuel forge. I like to watch people work in a solid fuel forge. Have a great day!
It's a catch 22 for me, I have a gas forge, so watching videos with the gas forge is technically more relevant, basic tool making, tong making, hook if the week etc. If it's a video I'm watching for entertainment, like something elaborate and fancy, it's nice to see a coal forge in use.
I read through many comments.... every option has been covered. I enjoy, learn and look forward to your bi weekly instruction, sure would have been great 70 years ago for me.
As a hobbyist blacksmith, I only work with a coal forge. While I may get a small gas forge at some point, but I love the coal and fire with the coal forge. Watching you use the coal forge has been greatly helpful to me in terms of fire management and steel placement
That took me all the way back to when I was in the Army ( Royal corps of Signals) Turning the end of a lead tube into a closed dome with a boxwood dresser. 30 plus years ago.
The coal forge is quieter which is always good for making a video where we can hear you talk while the forge runs but the gas is likely more relatable to others and probably more practical for the actual work considering the costs. In the end either way is good. Someone will complain no matter what you pick so go with what you think you would prefer.
I have both but I lean towards the coal side of things because I got it first. But whatever you choose I'll still watch your videos. You have taught me a lot. Thanks John. Oh by the way I miss Hook of the week.
John, my two cents worth, please keep the solid fuel forge going, I am using charcoal right now and wont get to propane anytime soon... I enjoy the fire tending tips that slip into your videos... thanks for all your work and time...
Honestly, I gain knowledge from both forge types. I do appreciate the benefits that come with camera angles but my reason for watching is to learn the craft from one of the best teachers on TH-cam. I have a gas blade forge that I find too small for decorative work, which is what I enjoy. I've considered creating a new gas forge with the openings being on the long side to help with this. I've also considered creating a box of dirt solid fuel forge. Will probably do both. So, learning both is useful to me.
Use what ever gets the job done. My grandpa's forge had his propane forge mounted on a swivel over the coal forge so he could move it out of the way when not in use.
I think we all work with what we got. I personally will be working in charcoal. I can make it nearly free. Coal is hard to come by. Gas maybe in the future as i do more forging. I think you need to do what is convenient and monetarily sound for you. I enjoy all of what you do. its the techniques that makes what you do great. Fortunately there are several options for heating the metal before you beat it. Thanks for you videos.
I enjoy watching blacksmithing videos and I especially like your presentation. You are precise and to the point. Too many videos that I have watched have too much useless talk.
John, use what ever forge you find useful for what ever project you are working on. Also, please, and I've shown this to a number of blacksmiths, please when using your angle grinder, clamp it in to the post vice or bench vice, to hold it securely, and manipulate the work piece as needed and you will have much more control! You will also speed up your work, a lot! Anyways, give it a try and let me know what you think. Love that you are teaching a whole new generation, and us old farts, about blacksmithing. Thank you, John.
Personally I am hooked up to a propane forge, so gas forge is my vote. Also if you are using the gas forge more than the coal forge, it just makes sense to keep the tool you use most. If there isn't space for both, getting rid of what you aren't using makes the most sense.
John, I run a coal forge and have two partially completed gas forges that I haven't found the time to finish. The latest gas forge project is complete except for the plumbing. I hope to finish it before summer. I enjoy seeing your fire management skills and watching has helped me with mine. Thanks
On the subject of forge options, I would say that the most educational move is toward efficiency. Even if that means going 100% gas, it's not like you don't already have at least one pretty detailed video on the anatomy and maintenance of a solid fuel forge. Either way, I look forward to the next project. Thanks John!
I went back to look at your shop tour and my suggestion for placement for your gas forge is directly behind the solid fuel forge but at a little angle so you create the anvil-post vice-forge triangle. It does still give you the camera placement that your are concerned about.
I think you should use what you find suits your job and space in your workshop, but I do like charcoal the most. It looks better, and its much cleaner. Thank you for all your videos, I do watch many of them, and I also try out your projects. Thank you
I work in a gas forge and a coal forge. But my preference is always coal. And I love watching blacksmithing videos where the smith uses a coal forge. With that being said, you make amazing videos regardless of what kind of forge you use. So I'll watch and love them regardless 👍🏻
Hello, I really enjoy your videos and how you teach. I have made some pretty cool things based on projects you showed. My forge is a coal forge and one of things I love about using it is the relative quiet versus a gas forge. I am sure you will adapt your filming and forging to their best advantage. Thank you for the inspiration! Smith On!
Solid fuel is my first choice. I use coke and the same gas forge that you have. It would be interesting to watch you work with charcoal too and learn how you adapt to that. I have enjoyed your entire presentation from the get-go John and have learned this craft pretty well with all of your expert instruction along the way. Whatever you do I expect that most of us will go along for the ride. The different shot---looking out--- made it look to me like the gas forge could be hung on some kind of a swinging bracket off of the post above the water(or oil) tank. That way it would not eat up floor space and you could push it back a little when not in use. My gas forge opening is up high enough so I can look right in without bending. A little over five feet. My only concern is that you do not morph into fabrication but I really doubt that from you. This project was super all the way to fitting the handle and chopping weeds. Variety makes things lots of fun. Something to do with spice?
Thank You for a fun and informative video with my morning coffee! Now if you can make that new weed wackier a remote controled job, you really got something and I'd certainly order one. Happy Hammering! DaveyJO in Pa.
What ever works best for the job but . . . I prefer the coal forge! I don’t have a gas forge right now but folks I know that do are always running out of gas at the worst time. And, since I live in Ky - coal is cheap and easy to find! Also, my husband and I run 1.5” scale 7.5 gauge live steamer trains that run on coal. So, I always have coal.
John, thanks for all the great work and teaching you do. I know this is an old video but as far as what type of forge to use, I really enjoy a good variety, I only have a 2 burner Majestic propane forge that my wife bought me for Christmas a few years ago, I am wanting to try a solid fuel forge sometime though. I really enjoyed watching the way you worked the pipe to fit the shovel handle and the explanations of how to perform the work. Keep up the great work and please use more than one type of forge if possible, I like the suggestion of a ceiling mounted system, possibly with maybe a wall or pole mount, if you do make something like that I'd really like a video of how you do it. John V.
I agree with the comments that what works for you is what is important. I will say that you talk more about fire management and heat control when you are at the coal. Otherwise it's your thought process of handling hot steel that I learn the most from.
By the way, I’ve built three ribbon burner forges. They don’t have to be as complicated as you indicate. Two valves. A needle valve for gas and a gate valve for the air. A plug for the blower. . Very adjustable- fairly portable.
The most valuable part of the videos for me it what happens at the anvil and with the tooling so overall, whatever is most effective for you to work with. I work with a propane forge, but I'm happy to learn more about my other options. Whatever you choose to do predominantly, it would be really interesting and educational if you were able to do a video or series of videos on the pros/cons of other solid fuels.
I really love the coal forge, especially for the forge welding. But I'm really looking forward to the building of the ribbon burner forge. I want to create one myself. I live in a village and using coal (especially forging coal) is not the best way to make friends with the neighbours.
I am impressed with that metal collar, it sure beats bailing wire and duct tape. And that is not a joke. After my first retirement I worked in a hardware store as the local repair guy. You would not believe the number of yard and garden implements I was asked to repair that required an extended period removing tons of duct tape, bailing wire, and many other handyman fixes that didn't work. Is an ax safe with duct tape wrapped around it and the handle? Doubt it. But I loved this video and the ween chopper, i could use one of those to get weeds out from under my spruce trees.
The latent heat of the gas forge is I think its greatest disadvantage in my small 1 car garage in the UK, but the convenience of it is great. I need to build a little solid fuel forge for those controlled heats then I'll be outside. Which ever suits you to use would be my preference it is at the end of the day a way of heating steel to forge after all. Nice whacker and keep safe.
Thanks for the great video, John. I have 2 rivet forges & one gas forge. I started out using smithing coal, as it was the thing to start out learning blacksmithing. When & was asked to do blacksmithing demonstrations at rendezvous to school kids, I decided to go to charcoal, because of the fact that it is so clean to burn. Healthier for the kids... I would enjoy seeing some blacksmithing done with charcoal. For a lot of newbies out there, it's hard to get their hands on smithing coal, or coke. Especially the people that have made their own forge from scratch. Walmart has it! Lol! I'd love to see a demo of making a cable damascus from a coal forge. I've always wanted to do that, but never have. Afraid of failure... Thanks again!
Actually I think the coal forge would be benefitial to your content in many ways: 1.) all you said about camera placement 2.) noise reduction (that's a big one) 3.) (what you seem to see as a negative, but I think is a huge plus) more insights on using a coal forge. Sure, those who use a gas forge don't get much out of it, but it's additional content for the other party and more knowledge won't hurt anyone. I can't tell from a forging standpoint, but video quality wise it's a undisputed plus.
Thanks for the discussion on the pros and cons of the various forges. However, I have to agree with Canuck Loyalist, i.e., whatever is best for John is fine for me.
Good morning John, you handled that well 👍👍. Really enjoyed watching you and learned how you properly do a handle. Whatever way you do your videos and whatever forge you use is enjoyable to me. Thanks for sharing with us. Fred.
My opinion is since you like to do a lot of your work as traditional as reasonable, the coal forge makes sense for the videos. Production wise propane is the way to go.
I already answered the survey but thought I'd leave a comment regarding the coal v gas question anyway. I think you should use whichever you prefer and if that's coal, that's fine. Personally I only have a small propane Devil Forge with 2 burners but I primarily watch your videos for inspiration on projects. I don't watch your channel to replicate what you're making, but for the ideas and the technical direction and technique that help me think about how a project should be done. I'm barely a smith, and your content helps me understand why things are done the way they are more than anything and I feel like the method used to heat the steel is secondary. Just my 2 cents for what it's worth
I personally really enjoy when you use the coal forge, as it's what I have and I pick up so many little tidbits of information every time you use it. That being said, if you say the gas forge is more effective for your work, then use that! It would be really nice to see the coal forge come out every few videos though.
I like the gas forge, just because that's what's more practical for most, in my opinion. I also think you should use whatever you see fit for the project, its all part of the learning you are trying to convey, sometimes certain things work better in one than the other and the discussion between the two is helpful as well.
John do what you need to do your still a professional shop at the end of the day don't worry about us you know we can use a coal Forge a solid-fuel forge propane Forge acetylene Forge whatever just love the videos
I like seeing the solid fuel forge. The gas forge is practical and it's what I use. I have thought many time about putting together a solid fuel forge and can see where it would work better for some projects.
Hello John It is great with your Videos I learned everytime something Something i like a lot John you are a humorus guy and thats good Cool or gasforge thats the question that Split the comunity I like the gasforge . I can see the Material i see the clours and so on So for me no coalforge I wish you all the best Greetings from Germany Yours Frank
Make a swing arm that allows you to swing the chili forge over the coal forge table. You could also build it for the ribbon burner forge too. Then of course you swing it out of your way.
Looks like the perfect weed whacker!! Lots of good opinions. I agree with whatever you decide it takes to get your job done because Its your expertise and judgment that we learn from. I remember someone saying that if you showed how paint dried, we'd watch it!! True. lol. :)
With all considerations of environmental concerns I do love watching you work in the solid fuel forge it teaches me a lot but I also learn lots about a gas forge how they work and how to use them effectively It is kind of a toss up but I think solid fuel would be the way to go for the close ups of the work so we can see what is going on
John, when people come to my shop they like to see work done in my coke forge, it is a lot more traditional, however, when I am not demonstrating I use the gas forge, it is relatively quick and certainly a lot cleaner and easier to work with.
I certainly wouldn't want to lose the close up anvil shots no matter what forge your using...You do a great job of indicating where and how to hit...Losing that would detract alot from your channel...Showing someone hitting something with a hammer is all well and good but those close up shots that show it more precisely are what makes your videos very educational.
Personally I enjoy the gas forge work. Mainly because I don't have access to a coal forge.
I do however think that you should be forging on whatever you think fits your project and what inspires you to create content. As a content creator I'm sure you would sometimes hit a creative block and I think having fun with it is more important to help keep good content flow.
Either way I watch all your videos and learn a great deal so thankyou for your excellent work so far.
Personally I built my forge using a car rotor and a hair dryer, if you have a tractor supply near you they sell nut coal (anthracite) i hope this little bit of information helps you out friend
Loved how you worked the steel tube to the shovel handle, it worked wonderfully and gave me ideas for some of the garden tools i have. Thank you for sharing!
I think John should do whatever is easiest and best for John...forge wise.
I started watching your channel because my 9 year old nephew has an interest in blacksmithing and if that carries over into his teen age years I want to be prepared. I continue to watch because you’re an excellent teacher and I like your style of walking us through your projects. To me, seeing the old ways are important but in the end I don’t care what you use to work just so long as I can watch you work.
John, personally I think you should do what makes your work more efficient. That being said I work in a coal forge haha. But if a ribbon burner forge makes your work and videos more efficient then do it. We blacksmiths find a way to do all the same thing. It’s our way.
That, sir, is a work of art❤
I need so many different tools on my homestead, and most of the store bought ones eventually break or the darn handles come loose so I’m constantly having to rig up some remedy or grab my JB Weld. Watching this video through with the forging and handle building (that handle isn’t going to move!❤) has given me hope that I might become “tool self-reliant” someday. THANKS SO MUCH!
Thank you for all your videos, for me I only use coal but your videos always show more than 1 way to get the work done . Please use which ever method you see fit . We will continue to enjoy all of the teaching and hard work you give us. 😄
Man. I went back and watched some of your early videos... it is AMAZING how far you've come with your presentation, editing, composition, all of it!
The reverse shot of you working with the forge in the background was awesome!
Keep up the good work!
Navigon?
@@BlackBearForge Ha! That's the weirdest autocorrect my phone has ever done...
*background
In my photographic studio we've eliminated tripods completely and use a ceiling mounted articulated arm from Manfrotto. We mount cameras, lights and microphones to the same rig and there are no floor vibrations. I'm sure you could easily make one for yourself from the pic in the Manfrotto catalogue. I also like the gas forge.
I would add in the possibility of boom arms on the tripods.
The choke collars look nice, but the same goal can be acheived with some pipe clamps at a much lower cost... unless of course someone sends them to you for free.
Next build, a ceiling gimble mount for your camera.
I know that I'm very new to your channel. However, my opinion would not change. Do what you enjoy. I think all the adults will understand that.
I would like to see wood charcoal in the solid fuel forge. Selfishly, I choose that because as a beginner, that is what I am working with.
I am also looking forward to the ribbon burner build even if it is more complex with electronic blowers and gas safety cut off features.
We grow through your generosity. Thank you for the most precious gift - your time.
I use coal for 90% of my work, so I would like to see more coal forge, but I really have no preference. Hot is hot.
I just found Your chanel today . You remind Me of the way I imagine My Grandfather was ( He died a few mo. before I was born ) . He was a blacksmith too
( among other things ) .
Just my humble opinion but to me your safety and preference is the important part. The information is appreciated and in theory will translate no matter which forge is used. Right to for the right job. Thank you
Sweet weed wacker John. I’m voting for ribbon burner. I’ve been anticipating the build since you took it out the box.
I learned on a coal forge so I love seeing you work on the coal forge.
Either way, I’ll keep watching.
John I really enjoy the coal forge only because that's what I've setup. But in the end it's your way you show and explain what you're doing when you're doing it. Love what you do for us how are in need. Thanks
I appreciate that!
I have to say that as I grew up we had only a coal or coke forge, no gas. But I like that Black Bear Forge can use one or the other. I like seeing solid fuel forging, but if you switched to solely gas forging I’d be just as happy.
On the subject of cameras, floor space is precious. Hang a metal grid from your ceiling - or almost as handy, hang several strategically placed metal pipes from your ceiling. Then, mount the cameras (and lighting) from the overhead pipes. I worked in television for a number of decades, mounting equipment from overhead was standard practice and therefore the equipment to do so is readily available. But there are other (somewhat limited) options for floor mounting camera and lighting equipment. At one station, holes (several holes) had been drilled into the floor and lined with metal pipe. Another pipe was inserted as sort of a semi-fixed monopod. Not the greatest plan, but it worked. (TV stations often have non-permanent sets. Sets would be moved more than cameras or lighting equipment.)
Whatever you do, keep up the great work.
Whatever gets the metal hot! Thank you for all you do.
John, I love your channel. I know this video is a year old, but I'm commenting anyway.
I got the forging bug watching Forged in Fire, but as I turned to TH-cam, I discovered your channel.
I appreciate your respect for your craft/art. Your down to earth attitude and humble manner. You do make it look easy. (Which it isn't)
I find myself looking at old rusty metal in a whole new way..... "What can I make out of this?" Right now I'm still acquiring and thanks to your example making my tools. Tongs, punches and drifts. Among other things.
I still use a brake drum forge with a blow dryer. I worked for 36 years in the western coal mines. So I'll probably stick with coal since it's readily available.
I know Anthricite (cokeing coal) is preferred, but here in south East Utah I have access to high BTU, low sulfur coal and it's free. (It helps having friends and family still "diggin coal" that keep me supplied. You'd be surprised how much coal you can get in trade for a tomahawk or candle stick.
Please keep up the good work. God Bless.
Bert
I have two similar things, one made fro an old lawnmower blade and the other made from an edger blade. They lated for more than a decade of everyday wear and tear doing landscaping work. I love this design
I made one out of an old double ended spring plough point back in the ‘80s. I only put a short handle on it to use as a small mattock (grubber). It’s served me well all that time. I love you design though. I may have to try making it too. I have an old charcoal forge I built that nearly buggered so I upgraded it to a gas one. I find it heats faster and is definitely cleaner in the workshop. Thanks for the videos. As a amateur blacksmith, I have learned so much from your videos.
Use whatever is best for you. Sure your content will continue to be amazing no matter what!
I own both. Coal forge is rarely used. I’m not biased got either. So long as you still provide this great job of doing videos and instructions.
I just switched from coal to propane and I have to say it makes a world of a difference. Just being able to turn the gas in and forge is really nice. It's also a lot easier to control the heat and it's heats the metal more easily in my experience.
More coal forge would be cool. Would be interested to see you work with charcoal too. That’s what I’ve been learning with lately.
When I drive a tool onto a handle (as taught to me by my father) I hold the handle upside down and forcefully hit the butt end of the handle with a large hammer. This will draw the tool on to the handle tighter than you would ever expect with no chance of damaging the tool. This works for hammers, axes, pitch forks, hoes, you name it. Thanks for showing the technique of shrinking the tube and posting.
My son and I watch your videos as often as we can. I save the ones we really like in a file named instructions. Not sure how much longer I will be able to work because of health issues. He is like me and can learn by watching then doing. He has already gotten orders for some hooks you inspired. He didn't copy them but instead used your idea and made them his own. We got a huge pile of different size rebar scrap and old bed frames and he has been going to town on it. He is only 15 but is learning fast. Our time is spread out between that teaching him to weld( I got him a Lincoln stick welder, oxy acetylene, a power mig 215, and a small flux core welder) I have been focused on making him tools, tongs, punches, chisels, and anything else I think of. We also do metal detecting, and plant crops on our small 5 acre farm. We produce on average about 25k of food a year but this year are about double what we usually do. We also do jewelry and Native American crafts. He is Mi'kmaq, Choctaw on my side and Northern Ponca and Lakota on his mothers side. Lufe is pretty full here on our little farm. We really appreciate your videos. If you ever have time you can find him on TH-cam at FireFlyGuys.
I absolutely love you work. I try to catch every video and I’ve seen nearly all of your previous videos. You do an excellent job of explaining what you are doing and why, and as a novice it is super helpful. Keep up the content, sincerely me and my small group of forge enthusiasts!
Oh and great video on the fitting of the handle. I got to build me a set of those dual calipers.
So in searching for something like this, I learned what you're making is called a mattock.
I never knew a mattock was a thing. Thank you.
I love coal/solid forges, it is the old school blacksmith feeling. But I agree with some that you should choose the right tool for the job, time or money. I like your channel because of the projects, tips, videography and you as a person.
this is such a great channel, your filming quality and content are excellent, as are your flanders mustache and massive forarms. I've only seen like 4 of your videos so far and I've learned a ton, Thank you for the help :)
A garden tool that any gardener would be proud to use! 👍
I find that putting the gas forge behind me is pretty efficient. That would allow you to use either if you just leave the gas forge on lockable casters and roll it out of the way when done with it. Do what ever works for you. I'll enjoy your videos either way!
BTW... Your videos are much more pleasant after you potted you anvil! 👍
Solid fuel for the win. I have both, but enjoy the smart heat options of my solid fuel forge. I like to watch people work in a solid fuel forge. Have a great day!
I like the gas forge because that’s what I have. Thanks for the interaction. You do great work.
It's a catch 22 for me, I have a gas forge, so watching videos with the gas forge is technically more relevant, basic tool making, tong making, hook if the week etc. If it's a video I'm watching for entertainment, like something elaborate and fancy, it's nice to see a coal forge in use.
I read through many comments.... every option has been covered. I enjoy, learn and look forward to your bi weekly instruction, sure would have been great 70 years ago for me.
As a hobbyist blacksmith, I only work with a coal forge. While I may get a small gas forge at some point, but I love the coal and fire with the coal forge. Watching you use the coal forge has been greatly helpful to me in terms of fire management and steel placement
This so cool. I was wondering how you were going to get a handle on this and this was way cooler than I expected. Good teaching, enjoyable watch
That took me all the way back to when I was in the Army ( Royal corps of Signals) Turning the end of a lead tube into a closed dome with a boxwood dresser. 30 plus years ago.
The coal forge is quieter which is always good for making a video where we can hear you talk while the forge runs but the gas is likely more relatable to others and probably more practical for the actual work considering the costs. In the end either way is good. Someone will complain no matter what you pick so go with what you think you would prefer.
I have both but I lean towards the coal side of things because I got it first. But whatever you choose I'll still watch your videos. You have taught me a lot. Thanks John. Oh by the way I miss Hook of the week.
I really like this build. Great meaning of attaching and securing the handle. I could see that being a very handy tool to have
Glad you like it!
@@BlackBearForge yeah I could see me using one of those.
John, my two cents worth, please keep the solid fuel forge going, I am using charcoal right now and wont get to propane anytime soon... I enjoy the fire tending tips that slip into your videos... thanks for all your work and time...
Honestly, I gain knowledge from both forge types. I do appreciate the benefits that come with camera angles but my reason for watching is to learn the craft from one of the best teachers on TH-cam. I have a gas blade forge that I find too small for decorative work, which is what I enjoy. I've considered creating a new gas forge with the openings being on the long side to help with this. I've also considered creating a box of dirt solid fuel forge. Will probably do both. So, learning both is useful to me.
I'm a newbie as far as blacksmiths go but I had no idea you could do tubing so I'm excited to try it! Thanks John!
Here is a video showing a popular use for forged pipe or tube th-cam.com/video/BAK8hxULfdc/w-d-xo.html
@@BlackBearForge Thank you!!
I associate blacksmithing with the coal forge and enjoy seeing that process. Thanks for sharing your craft.
Use what ever gets the job done. My grandpa's forge had his propane forge mounted on a swivel over the coal forge so he could move it out of the way when not in use.
I think we all work with what we got. I personally will be working in charcoal. I can make it nearly free. Coal is hard to come by. Gas maybe in the future as i do more forging. I think you need to do what is convenient and monetarily sound for you. I enjoy all of what you do. its the techniques that makes what you do great. Fortunately there are several options for heating the metal before you beat it. Thanks for you videos.
I enjoy watching blacksmithing videos and I especially like your presentation. You are precise and to the point. Too many videos that I have watched have too much useless talk.
John, use what ever forge you find useful for what ever project you are working on. Also, please, and I've shown this to a number of blacksmiths, please when using your angle grinder, clamp it in to the post vice or bench vice, to hold it securely, and manipulate the work piece as needed and you will have much more control! You will also speed up your work, a lot! Anyways, give it a try and let me know what you think.
Love that you are teaching a whole new generation, and us old farts, about blacksmithing. Thank you, John.
Like Flytye said a camlock arm from the overhead could do away with some of the tripods to open up more floor space.
There's no way in hell i could finish them rivets as easily as you just did. A sweet job.Cheers ta
i cant wait to build a couple of these weed whacker!
Personally I am hooked up to a propane forge, so gas forge is my vote. Also if you are using the gas forge more than the coal forge, it just makes sense to keep the tool you use most. If there isn't space for both, getting rid of what you aren't using makes the most sense.
John, I run a coal forge and have two partially completed gas forges that I haven't found the time to finish. The latest gas forge project is complete except for the plumbing. I hope to finish it before summer.
I enjoy seeing your fire management skills and watching has helped me with mine. Thanks
I would love to see fire management tips with coal coke and charcoal. It would be good to see ways to get the most out of the solid fuels.
Nice to see you finish the week whacker. Might have to make myself one sometime. Greetings from down-under :)
On the subject of forge options, I would say that the most educational move is toward efficiency. Even if that means going 100% gas, it's not like you don't already have at least one pretty detailed video on the anatomy and maintenance of a solid fuel forge. Either way, I look forward to the next project. Thanks John!
Great point!
I went back to look at your shop tour and my suggestion for placement for your gas forge is directly behind the solid fuel forge but at a little angle so you create the anvil-post vice-forge triangle. It does still give you the camera placement that your are concerned about.
John, please do whatever is most convenient and most efficient for you.
I think you should use what you find suits your job and space in your workshop, but I do like charcoal the most. It looks better, and its much cleaner. Thank you for all your videos, I do watch many of them, and I also try out your projects. Thank you
I work in a gas forge and a coal forge. But my preference is always coal. And I love watching blacksmithing videos where the smith uses a coal forge. With that being said, you make amazing videos regardless of what kind of forge you use. So I'll watch and love them regardless 👍🏻
Hello, I really enjoy your videos and how you teach. I have made some pretty cool things based on projects you showed. My forge is a coal forge and one of things I love about using it is the relative quiet versus a gas forge. I am sure you will adapt your filming and forging to their best advantage. Thank you for the inspiration! Smith On!
Love the Pike Polaski!!
I'd prefer solid fuel, but will watch either
Solid fuel is my first choice. I use coke and the same gas forge that you have. It would be interesting to watch you work with charcoal too and learn how you adapt to that. I have enjoyed your entire presentation from the get-go John and have learned this craft pretty well with all of your expert instruction along the way. Whatever you do I expect that most of us will go along for the ride. The different shot---looking out--- made it look to me like the gas forge could be hung on some kind of a swinging bracket off of the post above the water(or oil) tank. That way it would not eat up floor space and you could push it back a little when not in use. My gas forge opening is up high enough so I can look right in without bending. A little over five feet. My only concern is that you do not morph into fabrication but I really doubt that from you. This project was super all the way to fitting the handle and chopping weeds. Variety makes things lots of fun. Something to do with spice?
Thank You for a fun and informative video with my morning coffee! Now if you can make that new weed wackier a remote controled job, you really got something and I'd certainly order one. Happy Hammering! DaveyJO in Pa.
What ever works best for the job but . . . I prefer the coal forge! I don’t have a gas forge right now but folks I know that do are always running out of gas at the worst time. And, since I live in Ky - coal is cheap and easy to find! Also, my husband and I run 1.5” scale 7.5 gauge live steamer trains that run on coal. So, I always have coal.
John, thanks for all the great work and teaching you do. I know this is an old video but as far as what type of forge to use, I really enjoy a good variety, I only have a 2 burner Majestic propane forge that my wife bought me for Christmas a few years ago, I am wanting to try a solid fuel forge sometime though. I really enjoyed watching the way you worked the pipe to fit the shovel handle and the explanations of how to perform the work. Keep up the great work and please use more than one type of forge if possible, I like the suggestion of a ceiling mounted system, possibly with maybe a wall or pole mount, if you do make something like that I'd really like a video of how you do it.
John V.
survey answer 4 - we love to see you work at both.
Would love to see the solid fuel forge more, however either is fine.
I agree with the comments that what works for you is what is important. I will say that you talk more about fire management and heat control when you are at the coal. Otherwise it's your thought process of handling hot steel that I learn the most from.
There isn't much to be said about fire management in propane. Other than turn the gas up to make it hotter.
The new tool came out well. I like the collar idea. Thanks John and you got my vote for the coal forge.
By the way, I’ve built three ribbon burner forges. They don’t have to be as complicated as you indicate. Two valves. A needle valve for gas and a gate valve for the air. A plug for the blower. . Very adjustable- fairly portable.
The most valuable part of the videos for me it what happens at the anvil and with the tooling so overall, whatever is most effective for you to work with.
I work with a propane forge, but I'm happy to learn more about my other options. Whatever you choose to do predominantly, it would be really interesting and educational if you were able to do a video or series of videos on the pros/cons of other solid fuels.
I really love the coal forge, especially for the forge welding. But I'm really looking forward to the building of the ribbon burner forge. I want to create one myself. I live in a village and using coal (especially forging coal) is not the best way to make friends with the neighbours.
I am impressed with that metal collar, it sure beats bailing wire and duct tape. And that is not a joke. After my first retirement I worked in a hardware store as the local repair guy. You would not believe the number of yard and garden implements I was asked to repair that required an extended period removing tons of duct tape, bailing wire, and many other handyman fixes that didn't work. Is an ax safe with duct tape wrapped around it and the handle? Doubt it. But I loved this video and the ween chopper, i could use one of those to get weeds out from under my spruce trees.
Add a swing arm on the post to mount the gas forge to, you could swing it out of the way when you want to use the coal forge
I should have read your post before I put up mine
The latent heat of the gas forge is I think its greatest disadvantage in my small 1 car garage in the UK, but the convenience of it is great. I need to build a little solid fuel forge for those controlled heats then I'll be outside. Which ever suits you to use would be my preference it is at the end of the day a way of heating steel to forge after all. Nice whacker and keep safe.
Thanks for the great video, John. I have 2 rivet forges & one gas forge. I started out using smithing coal, as it was the thing to start out learning blacksmithing. When & was asked to do blacksmithing demonstrations at rendezvous to school kids, I decided to go to charcoal, because of the fact that it is so clean to burn. Healthier for the kids... I would enjoy seeing some blacksmithing done with charcoal. For a lot of newbies out there, it's hard to get their hands on smithing coal, or coke. Especially the people that have made their own forge from scratch. Walmart has it! Lol! I'd love to see a demo of making a cable damascus from a coal forge. I've always wanted to do that, but never have. Afraid of failure... Thanks again!
Actually I think the coal forge would be benefitial to your content in many ways:
1.) all you said about camera placement
2.) noise reduction (that's a big one)
3.) (what you seem to see as a negative, but I think is a huge plus) more insights on using a coal forge. Sure, those who use a gas forge don't get much out of it, but it's additional content for the other party and more knowledge won't hurt anyone.
I can't tell from a forging standpoint, but video quality wise it's a undisputed plus.
Thanks for the discussion on the pros and cons of the various forges. However, I have to agree with Canuck Loyalist, i.e., whatever is best for John is fine for me.
Good morning John, you handled that well 👍👍. Really enjoyed watching you and learned how you properly do a handle. Whatever way you do your videos and whatever forge you use is enjoyable to me. Thanks for sharing with us. Fred.
My opinion is since you like to do a lot of your work as traditional as reasonable, the coal forge makes sense for the videos.
Production wise propane is the way to go.
Love your videos.
I already answered the survey but thought I'd leave a comment regarding the coal v gas question anyway. I think you should use whichever you prefer and if that's coal, that's fine. Personally I only have a small propane Devil Forge with 2 burners but I primarily watch your videos for inspiration on projects. I don't watch your channel to replicate what you're making, but for the ideas and the technical direction and technique that help me think about how a project should be done. I'm barely a smith, and your content helps me understand why things are done the way they are more than anything and I feel like the method used to heat the steel is secondary.
Just my 2 cents for what it's worth
I personally really enjoy when you use the coal forge, as it's what I have and I pick up so many little tidbits of information every time you use it. That being said, if you say the gas forge is more effective for your work, then use that! It would be really nice to see the coal forge come out every few videos though.
I like the gas forge, just because that's what's more practical for most, in my opinion. I also think you should use whatever you see fit for the project, its all part of the learning you are trying to convey, sometimes certain things work better in one than the other and the discussion between the two is helpful as well.
John do what you need to do your still a professional shop at the end of the day don't worry about us you know we can use a coal Forge a solid-fuel forge propane Forge acetylene Forge whatever just love the videos
Since I own a chili forge, I vote to go 100% gas.. It is helpful to see some of your work arounds
I like seeing the solid fuel forge. The gas forge is practical and it's what I use. I have thought many time about putting together a solid fuel forge and can see where it would work better for some projects.
Hello John
It is great with your Videos
I learned everytime something
Something i like a lot
John you are a humorus guy and thats good
Cool or gasforge thats the question that Split the comunity
I like the gasforge . I can see the Material i see the clours and so on
So for me no coalforge
I wish you all the best
Greetings from Germany
Yours Frank
Thanks 👍
Thanks for all the forge talk. That was interesting.
Make a swing arm that allows you to swing the chili forge over the coal forge table. You could also build it for the ribbon burner forge too. Then of course you swing it out of your way.
I enjoy both what's best for you is what matters I only have a gas forge but I enjoy leaning about coal forging so again it's what's best for you
Looks like the perfect weed whacker!! Lots of good opinions. I agree with whatever you decide it takes to get your job done because Its your expertise and judgment that we learn from. I remember someone saying that if you showed how paint dried, we'd watch it!! True. lol. :)
With all considerations of environmental concerns I do love watching you work in the solid fuel forge it teaches me a lot but I also learn lots about a gas forge how they work and how to use them effectively It is kind of a toss up but I think solid fuel would be the way to go for the close ups of the work so we can see what is going on
John, when people come to my shop they like to see work done in my coke forge, it is a lot more traditional, however, when I am not demonstrating I use the gas forge, it is relatively quick and certainly a lot cleaner and easier to work with.