Hello Everybody! I have been preparing to buy some metal forming tools and need help in choosing the most versatile ones. I did a two short courses at a college where most tools were available therefore I have some idea what I need. However since they were short I don't know how much usage they will actually see. I know that in terms of ring forming and bangle forming I will need the mandrels and they would be used often. But when it comes to shaping a more organic pieces I will need different shapes and forms. I am considering getting the following and would appreciate commenting of how useful they are.
Blacksmith anvil - Can't seem to find a polished large anvil anywhere on the internet. If this is not possible, has anyone got experience of polishing a rough one? Do you use this tool often? I remember liking it a lot when I was making rivets on a really long horn bangle. Would stakes be more useful?
Mini Anvil - are they used at all? They are all over the internet yet I haven't seen one bench actually having one.
Round Draw Plate - There are some very expensive Italian ones and cheaper Indian made, how and if they are world apart?
Rolling Mill - a very useful tool but boy is it expensive, any tip on buying a used one? (I found one but it's quite rusty - can this be cleaned?)Or perhaps there is an affordable one that is below 300 pounds? (wayy below)
Doming Punch and Block set - a specific tool, but can this variety of doming shapes be achieved by another more versatile tool? Also price range is huge I found one that costs 33 pounds (steel, 25 pieces, punches and block) and there are some with similar number of punches that costs over hundreds pounds. Is there a difference in steel that I would need to look out for?
I have read and agree with fellow members saying to buy tools when you start a specific project. This is that time for me since I want to experiment with shapes and generally learn how metal behaves. Apologies for this rather long enquiry
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