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Anvil, steel block and stakes

· 1 min read · Tools

Illustration: Anvil, steel block and stakes

Forging needs a hard, smooth surface. The anvil, steel block and stakes provide the right base for each shape.

Steel block #

A flat piece with a polished surface, for planishing and straightening on a stable base.

Anvil #

With round and flat horns for curving and shaping.

Stakes #

Steel bars of various shapes (conical, ball, spoon) held at the bench to shape hollow pieces (sinking and raising).

Care #

Keep surfaces polished and rust-free, and protect them with oil.

How each surface is used #

  • Polished steel block: planishing sheet and straightening.
  • Anvil with horns: curving strips and shaping bands.
  • Ball or spoon stakes: giving a concave shape to hollow pieces (sinking and raising).
  • Dapping block with hollows: making domes with punches.

Mounting #

Fix the block or anvil to a heavy base or a wooden stump at elbow height, to strike comfortably and prevent it from bouncing.

Caring for the surfaces #

A mark on the surface transfers to the sheet. Keep the steel polished and rust-free, and cover it with a thin film of oil. Do not cut or chisel on it.

See also #

This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.