I got all of this stuff the other day from my father in law's friend.  His family had bought out an old tractor mechanics shop and now had no use for the "junk" and is going to haul what is left for scrap iron.  ALL for free... The anvil has had the horn cut off the front and then welded on the side im not sure for what reason but if figure it will work for a rookie smith such as my self. 4 sets of tongs several huge drifts and punches along with some blade steel and files. My father in law gave me the fan to make a forge with so im pretty close to having a decent shop going pretty quick.  Let me know what yall think.
 
 

My sister has an old Peter Wright anvil with a small horn on the side like that.  Not sure what they're for, but I think they left the factory like that.  Nice haul!

Wampus, it definently could be a factory part, but there is a cutting torch mark on the front of the anvil where the horn would have been that looks as though it was cut off.

I Think Your one lucky Fellow!!!!

Should have been more clearer...sis's anvil still has the big traditional horn on the front plus the little horn like that on the side.  No idea what it's for.

Score.  An anvil is often the most expensive part of the blacksmiths shop, you have enough to get started with a forge and a post vice you will have the basics every shop needs.

Im pretty happy with my haul.  Im on shift today so all ive been doing is watching smithing vids on youtube in between calls.  I cant wait to get started on my first knife and hawk.

The horn's not re welded. The anvil was built w/ that small extension. I think it's either a farriers or carriage makers anvil. As to the large horn being broken off . . usually anvils which were captured during the revolutionary, & civil wars had the horns broken off so the enemy's farriers couldn't shape horse shoes. Or so the story goes.
For blade forging you'll use the flat more than anything else.
Nice find! Good luck!!!

Larry

Thats some pretty interesting info. When i get home im going to look closer at the numbers and name stamped on the side and ill post em when i get a chance.

Great score Canders!  

The phrase "luck bas#$%d" pops to mind     Enjoy your score and show us all the great work you do. Got to love family.

good deal.

Have you had time to play w/ the new toys?  (from a guy who has to live vicariously through others for a bit:))

Jeremy I've been caught up in a few other things in the past week but tomorrow Tuesday and wednesday I'll will hopefully be building my plow disc forge and getting my anvil set up at the right height.  I'm sure every hobby smith knows how family events and plans can delay your plans here and there but I'll post some pics of the forge when I'm done with it. I also did some horse trading for a table saw so my bow shop can maybe finish it's first bow as well LoL.

Here is my plow disc forge and my new anvil stand i have since secured my anvil with four large nails.  I fired up the forge for just a little while  this evening because i couldnt wait till friday when i get off shift. My welding and fab skills sure could use some work but i think it will be very functional forge.  I also hit an anvil with a hammer and a hot piece of steel for the first time in my life and ive got to say i think ive found my life long hobby.  hope you enjoy the pics and let me know what yall think.
 
 
 

Great score indeed!  That anvil looks very interesting and should serve you well!  And the forge looks cool too!

Steve
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Potomac Forge
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IN GOD WE TRUST