Trying Cheap Acciaio Anvil to Forge a Tong

[@heathworsley8347]

That 20 + minutes absolutely flew by! Great work as usual Glen thank you for sharing

[@gstongs]

I'm glad you're sticking around. Thanks.

[@Alanbataar]

I always admire your methodical approach to smithing. Regarding the anvil, I think they absolutely have a place in the blacksmithing ecology. They are a fantastic value for a beginner smith, and as a soft anvil, will be forgiving of missed hammer blows, errant chisel strikes, over-punched holes, etc -- the anvil will get a dent, but not chip, and also won't break hardened tools. Plus, dents can be hammered back into shape or dressed with a simple file or flap wheel. BTW, the lower pitch ring is because it's not hard. They are absolutely not a "forever anvil" but are an entry-level tool at an entry-level price, which is what this art needs: easy & cheap ways to bring beginners into the fold.

[@gstongs]

This style anvil most certainly has its place. You make very good points, the attractiveness of this anvil for those starting out is tangible and they mostly won't be disappointed. Thanks for your very good, thoughtful comment.

[@fpoastro]

Man, working with my hands all my life, never any blacksmithing, and I cant tell you how absolutely hard that looks. The beauty of the end result, esthetics as well as I'd imagine function, are mind blowing. The mere ability to do it is truly impressive.

[@gstongs]

It's like anything, the more you do it, the less complicated it seems. I was also in awe of blacksmithing (and still am) but the mystery is slowly revealed over time. Thanks.

[@maxtrehus602]

These anvils are made from 1045 and induction hardened. I believe in the early days when these started hitting the market, hardness varied quite a lot. Fortunately they seem to have gotten more consistent with hardness, somewhere around 50-54 Rockwell. I bought one earlier this year in March of 2020 and mine rings but a strong magnet under the square horn quiets it almost completely. As for re bound the one I got is very good. Dropping a ball bearing from 10” it’ll bounce back to at least 8.5”. Very nice forging as always!

[@gstongs]

Thanks Max.

[@mmcnew1]

I was so fascinated with the expert craftsmanship shown here in the making of the tongs that at about 5 minutes in I forgot this video was even about the anvil. 😂

[@virtualvegan7376]

same lol

[@greasydot]

Those turned out beautiful. Great job Glen. Thats for sharing with us.

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@dragonstonegemironworkscra4740]

The more i watch you actually make tongs...the more i wonder about the more traditional tong making w multiple set downs and seemingly much more work involved. Obviously you have a marketable product and customer base for a reason. Hope that didn't sound bad . I do like the style and have made a pair from your video wrapping the piece whole around round stock. Albeit mine are not of the same quality as the 1st pair ive made. But they do work well. Thank you for sharing your time and technique with us. 🙏 Well wishes and Blessed days now Crawford out ⚒️🧙‍♂️

[@gstongs]

Tongs need not be as complicated as the one I made here. The offsets / set downs are not completely necessary. Thanks as usual for your thoughtful comment.

[@RRINTHESHOP]

Nice set of tongs, I really like your style of tongs. Thank you for sharing.

[@gstongs]

It's my pleasure. Glad you like the tongs. Thanks.

[@dad_uchiha1707]

Bro, what the hell! The magnet is mega game changer! It dampens the sound sooooo much. I did it to my 92kg anvil and omg!! 💪💪

[@paulorchard7960]

Well done Glen, made with the precision you always display!

[@gstongs]

I appreciate your kind comment, etc. Thanks.

[@aforcedeforger9652]

Look at those tongs... amazing work. 🙌🏼

[@gstongs]

Thanks for sure.

[@brysonalden5414]

Thanks for your review, and thanks for showing the use of a brass brush on your tongs. Whether it helps resist rusting I don't know, but it looks much nicer than the unadorned steel.

[@gstongs]

The brass brush does help with rust, for sure. But with tongs, which are repeatedly heated, it's easy for this to wear off. But with ornamental pieces, the rust protection can last a very long time. Thanks.

[@antoner1386]

I really enjoy watching you make and create! I've seen these anvils around and always been curious about how it would be forging on one. Thanks for the video. you're the man! Have a great day.

[@gstongs]

I was curious as well. I had this anvil sitting on the side for months. Overall, it's not a bad anvil when I consider the cheap price. Take care.

[@gimli4you]

Thank you for making this video. I’m new to all this and just bought one of these anvils. I will be using it to make knives primarily. I think the tongs are amazing.

[@alexkatsaros6180]

I'm very impressed with number of small aids you have to do little tasks while you are at the anvil. Nice job with the tongs by the way!

[@beeforge4260]

ok weird.. before watching the video ive been wanting to make a farrier style tong because i like the graceful look. this tong has that look but in a glen artistic twist. well done. thanks for your time.

[@gstongs]

It's my pleasure. Good luck in your tong making / blacksmithing.

[@flatlinesup]

Awesome set of tongs and vid (as usual). Definitely love your style and creativity. * don't know if you knew, but you've had some shout outs on a smaller newish channel: Dirty Shed Creations talking about how awesome your channel and work were. No affiliation, just wanted you to know you're influencing other folks out there with what you do and you are appreciated Thanks again!

[@gstongs]

Yes, I've had some business with Dirty Shed Creations - very nice folks and their channel should be much more popular... Thanks.

[@heardashot]

Stunning work!! Absolutely stunning. I thouraghly enjoyed that. Thank you Glen.

[@gstongs]

Very glad you like this. Thanks for watching.

[@honeycuttracing]

Very cool, could watch you make 100 tongs and wouldn't get old!!! Anvil we got is a piece of railroad track with a 1 inch thick 8 by 8inch piece of steel but it works!

[@gstongs]

I'm glad to hear that since I will certainly do more tong videos. As for an anvil, whatever works, works, period. Thanks.

[@desmcdowell2469]

It's not perfect, but you have to admit that for the price these anvils are a game changer for someone looking to get into forging. I recently purchased the same 66lb anvil brand new for €104 delivered. I also purchased the 132lb version of the same anvil and it's awesome. I'm a mechanic, not a blacksmith, but it's a trade I hugely admire and someday hope to become more familiar with 👍

[@Qrunch]

Very nice work as always! I suppose anvils are like many other things: you get what you pay for. And also, I’m once again reminded that I need a brass brush!

[@thalesgodoi7325]

O meu

[@gstongs]

Yes, very true in most cases. Thanks for watching.

[@gaz0463]

As is always the case, Glen, your work is so good. Your work always looks neat & tidy and very skilful. And I know, from experience, the tongues you make are very durable. The self adjusting tongues I purchased from you 2yrs or so ago are as good as new and I use them all the time. The brass that you brush on them really does prevents them from rusting. They’re the most versatile and most used tongues I have. Do you still make them and have you changed the design at all? If so I’d love to see a video of you making them again including any design changes. Thanks for all the hard work and effort you put into your videos. I know there’s a lot more work, time and effort goes into producing videos than some people would imagine. It’s very much appreciated. Thanks Glen.

[@gstongs]

I appreciate your kind comment. I have made some small changes to my riverless-adjustable tongs and I think your idea of me doing a new video of them is good. Good luck in all and if you ever have any questions, you can always get in touch. Much appreciated.

[@rayraamsalu6092]

Always a pleasure to see a real craftsman at work.

[@hannemannironworks1651]

The anvil is great for hobbyists and beginners and as always great work

[@gstongs]

Definitely a serviceable anvil. Thanks.

[@Romezview]

the rings of different anvils...me with some high pitch hearing loss saying....they all sound the same to me haha 😄

[@gstongs]

Sorry to know about your hearing loss but in this case you're not missing anything. Thanks.

[@michaelslack5269]

That anvil would do fine for us Armour makers...my RR track ASO's have there place but this would certainly be an upgrade for me. Thank you sir for the post and critique. Most helpful.

[@gstongs]

The surfaces, double horns, holes etc. do make this a very useable anvil. Thanks.

[@kevinboyd696]

Thanks for a great tong build! Just FYI, I have one of those anvils and when secured that is much less. I hope you get to try one properly mounted and you will not be losing so much energy with every strike. You might have a different impression. You are a great artist. Thank you!

[@bigernbladesmith]

Glad I remembered to find and sub to you on my new account. As always it's a joy and relaxing to watch you work Glen.

[@publicblacksmith9467]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXJfKWNjLSrZ5I

[@gstongs]

I really appreciate having you around. Thanks.

[@alanspeert8351]

Sounds like a good anvil for a new smith. Anvils in the US are cost prohibitive. Thanks for a informative video

[@gstongs]

Yes, a beginner would find this anvil very useful. Thanks.

[@KillerBearsaw]

Your work is fantastic! Look forward to seeing what you do next! Please open a web store!

[@johncatt1867]

As always Mr. Glen, another great video. Roy over at Christ Centered Ironworks had pretty much the same review as your about this anvil. Thank you Sir.

[@gstongs]

Yes, but Roy is most definitely more informed on this anvil than I. Thanks.

[@jeffbarkett366]

Nice set of tongs Glen

[@gstongs]

This pair came out fine. Thanks.

[@fandommennis1348]

What a beautiful set of tongs! I mean, wow. As I get better (I'm just starting) I will be looking forward to getting a set from you. Beautiful work

[@TheOldaz1]

Nice tongs. I think if the anvil was properly mounted it wouldn't ring nearly as much and rebound would also be improved. Thanks Glen.

[@mikenewman4078]

I have the 50kg version which I mounted to a heavy Oak stand. I machined an insert for the frog from the Oak and bonded it in with Sikaflex, it took the ring away and the anvil stays put. Rebound seems ok, but I haven't compared it to anything better than 60kg railway track. The combined mass would be over 100kg.

[@gstongs]

Proper mounting would help. But I think the rebound wouldn't change too much. Thanks.

[@gstongs]

Thanks for sharing your experience with this style anvil.

[@paschalia100]

Beautiful work

[@gstongs]

Thanks for your kind comment.

[@752brickie]

I see you have made a few sets! Great video ! Thank you

[@gstongs]

Hi Thom, Yeah, I've made my share of tongs. Thanks.

[@MartinBruleJr]

i love the technique, especially the shoulders under the boss, at the top of the reins

[@markphillips3250]

Beautiful job on the tong build. You've been doing that awhile I guess. Very impressive.

[@gstongs]

I've made more than a few tongs. It's probably the only item that I can say I have a decent grasp on. Thanks for watching.

[@markphillips3250]

Do you mind if I ask you a question? Is there really a lot of difference between a steel anvil made in China or a anvil made in the USA. Steel surface or carbon steel surface. I'm not an expert but I'm really curious.

[@lancemillward1912]

sweet tongs and excellent explanation

[@markharrisllb]

Thank you, this video has answered a lot of questions for me.

[@gstongs]

It's my pleasure. Thanks.

[@demian8255]

Sin palabras, golpes justos y exactos un verdadero maestro de la forja

[@minenotyours6906]

By far your tongs are the best I've seen. And I've seen ALOT of tongs being made on KZbin, I have subscribed and shared. Keep them coming sir

[@mattjohns3394]

In Australia, Hare and Forbes sell a Chinese copy of this anvil. It's not a good casting but it still isn't cheap. I think it was nearly AU$600 3 years ago. Both the hardy and pritchel holes still had casting sand in them, and painted over.

[@gstongs]

Thanks for the information. I'm suspicious of all anvils that are painted.

[@mattjohns3394]

@@gstongs I don't blame you. Anvils in Australia are shockingly overpriced. Even chipped, cracked and rusted ones that have sat in a garden as an ornament for decades go for stupid money. I managed to write mine off as a "work expense".

[@derekhughes9274]

Thanks Glen, always interesting. As for the anvil, you get what you pay for. Still a good start though. Cheers Derek.

[@gstongs]

It really isn't a bad anvil and when the price is considered, it makes it even more attractive. Thanks.

[@Lmr6973]

You do make it look easy. Thanks.

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@buckzillakiller]

Glad to see you still at it. Your hammering is very GS tongish

[@sergeyshoigu6104]

I can't help but think the anvil feels dead because , its sitting on a table that deflects 4 or 5mm with every hit? Beautiful tongs!

[@UsDiYoNa]

Agreed, itd have to be properly mounted to really tell.

[@TyrellKnifeworks]

Beautiful tongs! I should get a few pairs. 😉

[@gstongs]

Thanks for watching and for your kind comment.

[@nullsnaggle5198]

You sir...are incredibly impressive

[@gstongs]

I appreciate your kind comment.

[@nullsnaggle5198]

@@gstongs any time my man

[@markspc1]

Glen the density of alloy steel varies very little, however the area moment of inertia and mass moment of inertia of the two anvil looks very different. The area moment of inertia for a solid rectangle is I = (bh^3)/12 and h (the height) is the important dimension that gets cubed. So h is the height between the legs of the Italian anvil and b is the width. As you can see your favorite anvil height is much bigger than the Italian anvil and when you cube it the result is quite overwhelming.

[@gstongs]

Your comment is very technical. But I've always instinctively felt the height of an anvil to be the most important measurement. Perhaps this proves that true. Thanks for sharing.

[@ohiovalleyforge5383]

I really like this style of boss to rein transition

[@nuntoki]

.... it has a different density, if that makes any sensity! Ha ha that's a grandpa level pun. One level above dad jokes😀😀😀😂

[@gstongs]

Ha! I was hoping someone would pick up on that... Dang, I'm on grandpa level - getting old...

[@melgross]

Or below.

[@mckutzy]

Yes... very nice.... seams like alot of steps... but it renders your product different and unique from others, with your style distinguished.... I want to see your variation of a soapstone holder... That way your hands can get a good safe distance from the hot steel when marking near/on hot stock...

[@gstongs]

Yes, a lot of these steps aren't completely necessary for making a functioning tong. And your wish is my command - your comment sparked me to make a simple soapstone holder. I'll post that soon and I mention you in the video. Thanks.

[@طالبالعراقي-ر9د]

Thank you from Iraq 🇮🇶

[@publicblacksmith9467]

Good job .

[@faisalfaixal2376]

ihave to say you are have the professionalism for tongs

[@gstongs]

I appreciate your kind comment. Thanks.

[@faisalfaixal2376]

@@gstongs welcome. mani have been watching ur channel from past2 yearss liked ur content always

[@MrDunk66]

Thanks Glen

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@jonkwilloughby]

That is the anvil I bought this spring Glen. I think I paid about $130 shipped. It is working pretty good for me but since it is my first one, I don’t know any better! Lol! I look forward to trying out the guillotine tool set on it that I just ordered from you! Dang watching you make those tongs was just awesome, I wish I had a fraction of your skill!! :)

[@gstongs]

It's a very serviceable anvil. In time, you'll likely be more skilled than me. Thanks for watching and for your business.

[@tcgrizz59]

His tongs are very nice.

[@phillipdennison4152]

This is REALLY AWESOME

[@publicblacksmith9467]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXJfKWNjLSrZ5I

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@wilmamcdermott3065]

Good job on hose tongs

[@thepaingainer]

Simply beautiful!

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@edwardfrostickblois4191]

I've learned a lot from that. Thank you.

[@bernardopatino6819]

I like you videos. Art.

[@gstongs]

Thanks for the kind comment.

[@stevethecountrycook1227]

If Christopher Walken was a blacksmith, this is what he would sound like! No offense meant! lol Also, that is a nice set of tongs, you do good work!

[@gstongs]

I can't tell you how many people have said this very same thing in the comment sections of my videos. At this point, has to be a dozen or more. Must be true!

[@stevethecountrycook1227]

@@gstongs Sorry friend, but yes! your inflections are identical! Ha ha.

[@deadlyfreckle]

amazing work

[@publicblacksmith9467]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pWXJfKWNjLSrZ5I

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@HWPcville]

Your tong blanks look like they were created by drop forging in an industrial press. Very nicely done! About your anvil, could the lack of discernable rebound and dead feeling be attributed to the lighter weight/mass than you're accustomed to? Your tongs look great. Thanks for posting.

[@gstongs]

I think the deadness of this anvil is mostly due to it being made for 1045 (what others have told me). Just not an ideal material for an anvil. Thanks for your kind comments about my tongs.

[@mage8838]

Roy Adams at Christ Centered Ironworks is giving away one of these anvil every month on his channel. He did some work on it and a review on it. I believe that his comments were similar to yours. Basically a decent starter anvil.

[@gstongs]

Yes, I see he frequently features this style anvil. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@miwaretumai9014]

kool vid bro..👌🏿💯 watching from nz🤙🏿

[@gstongs]

Thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment.

[@johndoby]

It would be nice to know how much different it feels when mounted properly to a solid base. The anvil had significant movement when you were striking it.

[@williamsforge6263]

Great video.

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@andymason703]

Excellent video

[@gstongs]

Thanks Andy.

[@dougalexander7204]

Much respect...

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@A_Ck9]

Perfect work 👌

[@nativeflight7079]

The blocks you have are really cool. Where did you get them?

[@baldwindigital]

Thanks for the video. - anvil looks like it has a little movement? I used silicone to bed both mine when I locked them down and it improved the sound greatly. Mine both rebound close to 90% but I’m not that concerned with the numbers. I have the 30k and the 60k both. My understanding is they can be inconsistent unit to unit which may be the case there? Mine are both apparently pretty good as far as the brand goes. My 30k sounds much higher pitched than yours, so that does possibly equate to the inconsistency commentary I have read. They are 1045 steel (c45 euro spec) apparently. I dislike the pritchel placement mostly because it’s not flush there being at the head of the horn, and the hardy is actually in mm so everything I have in inches is off a tad. My hardy on the 60k is actually 1 1/4” (32mm) - I am building tooling more for the 60k and use the 30k for finer work as of now. Overall I think for a buck a pound it’s a pretty good starting anvil opposed to a cast iron ASO, and if they could tighten their QC and move that pritchel it would be even better. Bonus would be loose that atrocious blue paint. I stripped both mine when I was dressing them. Thanks as always for the vid!

[@gstongs]

Thanks for all the good information. That the anvil is 1045 carbon steel and not a harder, medium carbon alloy like 4145 makes sense to me after just using it once. I agree, given its shortcomings, overall this anvil is good value for the price. Thanks.

[@draven3838]

I've never seen anyone make tongs like you do , you make them simple compared to others, very nice well made heavy duty tongs.what do you charge for for tongs and a rivet block

[@gstongs]

I normally charge $37 per tong. And I normally don't make rivet headers (blocks) for sale. Thanks for your kind comment.

[@Mountainmonths]

very well made

[@gregworkshop5713]

hi very nice work

[@gstongs]

Thanks.

[@garyjohnson801]

Awesome work did you make all the tools you used to make the tongs

[@jimtalbot3989]

I happen to have one of those exact anvils, but the horn is oval shaped. It mostly sits on a shelf, till i need it for a specific task

[@gstongs]

It's the sort of anvil that if I had the space to give it a permanent spot, I would definitely find specific tasks to use it for every now and then. Thanks.

[@wilkinsweldingforge9341]

Great video I just found you some how and glad I did... what size stock do you start with for your tongs

[@whisperzzar3321]

He mentions it in another of his vids. Can't remember totally, but im 80% sure it was either 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch. Leaning towards the 1/2 inch for this pair looking at the size in his hands.

[@angryroostercreations5194]

you'd feel more of the rebound if the anvil was more securely fashioned. All that movement is energy being lost. also it's 66lbs and a lot of that weight is in the horns. There's not a lot of mass under the main strike face.

[@nhojcam]

Beautiful work, man! Really nice! I am in the process of "upgrading" my setup. I was able to find an old 1903 Hay Budden drop forged 123lb steel anvil which still has the longitudinal crown on the face...barely used. Sub'd and thank you for your videos.

[@paultiki9968]

Dude I am sooo jealous. I'm still using a big hunk of scrap steel as my anvil.

[@1080-v4v]

Did you make that top tool?

[@terrywright3359]

How can I get a pair of your tongs? Want them to hold 5/8" square stock with 12" handles.

[@jamesw9930]

He has a website that you can order from www.gstongs.com/

[@gstongs]

You can find my website at: www.gstongs.com Or email me: [e-mail] Thanks.

[@larryjones4713]

How much do you charge for tongs?

[@Julian.Heinrich]

I’m curious what material this guy’s “normal” shaped anvil is... anybody know where I can find a video / specifics on it?

[@gstongs]

My small, block style anvils are made from 4145 steel. I designed these and they are completely heat treated, top to bottom. Thanks for watching.

[@dreadneckforge]

Amazing work! I'm just starting, and this is the anvil I bought. The ringing is pretty loud. I've never even considered using magnets. How does that decrease the ringing? Does it matter how strong the magnets are? Thanks!

[@MateusMores]

You could also try gluing your anvil to the base using Sikaflex or something similar. It worked amazingly to me.

[@ianjamison5460]

On mine, 50kg, I added a magnet on the side and wrapped the base in chain, helped a lot.

[@PB8man]

What kind of anvil is your "normal" anvil?

[@gstongs]

The small, block style anvil I usually use is my own design which I had made here in Taiwan. Thanks.

[@PB8man]

@@gstongs awesome! Looks. Great!

[@UsDiYoNa]

@@gstongs I had no Idea you were located in Taiwan, thats so cool. How are blacksmiths viewed over there, are they more valued by the culture or is it comparable to how it is in the US?

[@gstongs]

Blacksmith here in Taiwan are probably held in the same regard as in the US. But since blacksmithing is less popular here, at least as a hobby, I think most folks have less of an opinion or understanding of hot iron work. Thanks.

[@jeremiahmccutcheon3234]

Awesome

[@markyboy078]

Hi Glen, can you tell me how you are getting that brass finish on the tongs? Is it just the brush Or is it some sort of powder also? Slowly working my way through your videos all have been great so far😀

[@elehcim6384]

Yes, it is just the brush

[@bc65925]

FYI, the word "Tong" is a verb. As to tong a piece of charcoal. The word "Tongs" is the noun.

[@stanervin6108]

Don't know how to do a link, but try this: Dictionary.com/browse/tong Both usages are considered common and correct.

[@gstongs]

I don't mind being grammatically corrected. But it just sounds more natural to me to say "this tong" rather than "this pair of tongs". At any rate, thanks for watching.

[@gstongs]

Good job teacher Stan. Thanks.

[@AlbiesProductsOnline]

Or it might have something to do with it not supposed to be sitting on rubber because it would be taking the rebound out

[@gstongs]

I think that does affect the rebound but not to a large degree. Someone told me these anvils are made from 1045 and that explains the dead face to me. Thanks.

[@carlosrodrigues1467]

Muito bem feita a ferramenta sabe ique faz

[@gstongs]

Thanks for watching.

[@grandadz_forge]

I'm just a tong video junkie dreaming about a Peddinghause

[@gstongs]

Ha! Good one. Thanks.

[@wolfparty4234]

Heyyyy buddy!!!

[@gstongs]

Hey there, you're first...

[@stanervin6108]

That's not a bad anvil, Glen...For cast iron. Have your welder guy use hardface rod on the top. Will help a little bit with usability.

[@gstongs]

That's a good idea to turn an average anvil into a better-than-avergae anvil. Thanks.

[@rdpawla2550]

A chher thiam hle mai

[@rami3433]

beautiful !!

[@davemcbeardface8976]

All I can hear is Christopher Walken

[@brianflowers8627]

My initial thoughts 🤣

[@gstongs]

You're about the tenth person to tell me that. Must be true. Thanks for watching.