The Best Anvils for Beginner Blacksmiths in 2020

Why the Right Anvil Matters for Beginners

Choosing the right anvil when you’re starting out in blacksmithing is more important than many people realize. A solid, well-made anvil absorbs shock, provides the rebound needed for cleaner strikes, and protects your tools from wear. It also helps you build good forging habits from the beginning. Some newcomers make the mistake of focusing only on weight or appearance, but a good starter anvil balances quality materials, practical design, and ease of use.

Key Features to Consider When Buying an Anvil

• Material: Forged steel is the top-tier choice for anvils. It’s strong, durable, and delivers excellent rebound. Cast steel is also good and more affordable. Cast iron should be avoided—it’s brittle and can’t handle repeated blows well, making it a poor option for forging.
• Weight: Most beginners do well with an anvil weighing between 75 to 150 pounds. Heavier anvils stay in place and absorb more force but are harder to move around. Lighter ones are easier to carry but may bounce or slide during use.
• Face and Work Surface: The face should be flat, smooth, and large enough to work on comfortably. A wide, even surface helps you strike accurately. Avoid anvils with rounded or damaged faces, as these make forging more difficult and inconsistent.
• Horn and Heel: The horn is the rounded end, used for bending metal into curves. A smooth, conical horn makes shaping much easier. The heel on the opposite side provides a second flat surface for smaller tasks. Both add valuable flexibility for new smiths.
• Hardy and Pritchel Holes: The square hardy hole is made for holding tools like chisels or bending forks. The round pritchel hole is for punching. Both are useful and allow you to expand your toolkit over time, so make sure your anvil includes them.
• Rebound and Ring: A good anvil returns energy from your hammer strike—this is called rebound. Better rebound means less effort from you. Many quality anvils bounce back around 70–85%. A ringing sound can also be a sign of solid steel construction, though quiet anvils aren’t necessarily lower quality.

Top 5 Anvils for Beginner Blacksmiths in 2020

These are some of the most trusted beginner anvils available in 2020. Each one has specific features that make it useful for different types of beginners, whether you’re working in a garage or planning to build a full workshop.

• Ridgid-Peddinghaus 9kg Anvil: This compact, forged steel anvil weighs only 20 pounds, making it one of the most portable options around. Despite its size, it’s incredibly well-made, with sharp edges and a smooth face. Rebound is excellent—well over 85%. It’s ideal for small projects and tight spaces. The main drawback is the limited face area, which might not work for large-scale forging. It’s also on the pricier side for its size.
• NC Big Face Anvil: With 70 pounds of cast steel, this anvil offers a wide face that’s perfect for beginners. It includes a smooth horn and both hardy and pritchel holes. The broader surface gives beginners more room for striking, which can lead to fewer errors. It holds up well under regular use, though it won’t match the durability of forged steel long term.
• Grizzly G7065 Anvil: This is a popular budget choice. At 110 pounds, it has good mass and a tool steel face for added durability. Rebound is moderate, around 60–65%, but it’s still very usable for new smiths. It’s not built for high-impact, constant forging, but for casual or learning use, it’s a solid pick without breaking the bank.
• TFS 100 lb Blacksmith Anvil: This 100-pound cast steel anvil is well-balanced for beginners who want to grow into their tools. It has a large 1-inch hardy hole, a nice wide heel, and a smooth horn. Rebound sits comfortably above 80%, which makes it a very efficient tool. It’s less portable, but excellent for long-term use and more serious learning.
• JHM Journeyman Anvil: Made from ductile iron with a hardened face, this 125-pound anvil is professional-grade and ready for frequent use. It includes all the expected features: hardy and pritchel holes, quality horn, and a sturdy base. While it’s more expensive than others on this list, it’s built to last and suitable even as your skills progress beyond beginner.

Budget-Friendly Anvil Alternatives

You don’t always need a brand-new professional anvil to get started. There are other options if you’re watching your budget or just want to try forging before making a big investment.

• Railroad Track Anvils: These are a favorite for beginners. They’re usually free or cheap, and while they lack features like horns or hardy holes, they’re tough and decent for striking practice.
• DIY Steel Blocks: Some people start with a large chunk of tool steel or an old sledgehammer head mounted on a base. It’s not fancy, but it gives you a solid surface to strike on as you learn.
• Used Anvils: Keep an eye on blacksmithing forums, auctions, and local farms. You might find quality used anvils at a much lower price. Just be sure to check for cracks, chips, and a worn-out face before buying.

Tips for Maintaining Your Anvil

• Clean regularly: After every session, wipe down the surface to remove scale, metal chips, and moisture.
• Prevent rust: A light coating of oil keeps rust from forming, especially if your anvil is stored in a damp space or outdoors.
• Avoid the edges: Try not to strike directly on the corners or heel of your anvil. These areas are more likely to chip and can damage your tools.
• Secure it properly: Mount your anvil on a sturdy wood stump or steel stand using bolts or straps. A stable base improves control and safety.
• Reface only if needed: If the surface gets damaged, have it professionally refinished. But don’t grind it unless absolutely necessary—removing material shortens the life of your anvil.

Conclusion

Starting blacksmithing is all about learning by doing—and the right anvil makes that journey smoother. Whether you go with a lightweight portable model like the Ridgid-Peddinghaus or a heavier workhorse like the JHM Journeyman, picking a high-quality anvil from the start will set you up for success. Anvils aren’t just tools—they’re the foundation of every forge. Choose one that fits your space, your goals, and your budget, and you’ll be well on your way to mastering the craft.

Key Takeaway: Invest in an anvil that matches your forging style, workspace, and future plans. Forged or cast steel models offer the best performance. Avoid cheap cast iron, and remember that good rebound and a flat face make all the difference.

FAQs

What’s a good price range for a beginner anvil?

Most decent beginner anvils range from $150 to $500. Expect to pay more for forged steel or long-term durability.

Can I use a bench vise instead of an anvil?

No, a bench vise isn’t made for repeated hammer strikes and lacks the features needed for shaping and punching metal.

How do I anchor my anvil properly?

Use a heavy wood stump or steel base. Strap or bolt the anvil down to keep it stable while you work.

Do all beginner anvils come with hardy tools?

Most don’t. While the hardy hole is included, tools like bending forks or cutters are usually sold separately.

How can I test if an old anvil is still good?

Drop a steel ball on the face. If it bounces back at least 70% of the drop height, the rebound is strong. Also check for cracks or dead spots by tapping around with a hammer.