Shape your choice for an anvil manufacturer by working out your specifications

Do you need a single horn or a double horn? Is the round horn 9 inches or 13.25 inches? Is your blacksmith anvil going to weigh 100 pounds or 400 pounds? Will you use your anvil for farrier work or as a blacksmith anvil to make tools? If you're buying your first new anvil, ask the anvil supplier's opinion. It may be that a different model will serve you better.

I recommend: Blacksmiths Depot and ToolsDirect have anvil sales information and specifications you can examine to see if they're right for your business.

Determine the durability level for your metal anvil

When it comes to selling a metal anvil, suppliers tend to lean toward a particular brand. The Peddinghaus anvils boast of durability because they are drop-forged; they also are a high-grade steel anvil. Other anvils consist of cast iron.

I recommend: A lot of variation exists among anvil prices; Anvil Brand Shoe Company and a few of the companies mentioned above sell more expensive products, while suppliers such as Northern Tool + Equipment sell much cheaper ones. 

Forge an alliance with anvil suppliers for information and service

A blacksmith anvil isn't just a big piece of metal you hit with a hammer; you know this, so you know it's important to find the right kind of anvil for the work you'll be doing. A steel anvil, for example, is good for a certain kind of work, whereas other types have their own applications. Look at the work you need your anvil tool for and base your shopping on your needs.

I recommend: Check out a few anvil companies for the voice of experience and to sample their wares. Old World Anvils has been in business in the same location since 1856. Centaur Forge is a full-service blacksmith and farrier supply company.