Hello, my name is Chris. I live in Florence, AZ. Half way between Tucson and Phoenix. I have been forging blades for just over a year, learning from Youtube and Forged in Fire, a few books here and there.
I have an extended 2 car garage at my home that I use for my shop. It can easily get to 140 degrees in the summer.
I currently use a 2 burner propane forge that I built. However, I did recenty aquire an old coal forge and a BUFCO #700 hand crank blower. I have a 66 lbs anvil, several hammers and tongs. I converted an electric hydrailic verticle/horizontal 8 ton log splitter into a press. I am debating on a Divinci Cam hammer, not sure that the neighbors would appreiate that one.
I hope to learn as much as possible from anyone that would care to share.
Hi Chris welcome. I'm in Phoenix and understand your heat issues I forge outside(northern exposure) with as much shade as possible a fan and or swamp cooler. If you have an opportunity to take private lessons from someone who is experienced that can greatly improve your learning curve. I'm not sure how far along you are, but I have seen some sketchy stuff on F in F knowing the difference of good and bad practices could be dangerous. There have also been some very good makers on the show. Here are a few ideas for learning. Below check out the first two for classes I know the first also offers lessons, not sure about Desert metalcraft. On the bottom Travis puts on a great Hammer in I think it's always in March.
https://www.arizonablacksmith.wtf/
