Tried a buddy's old coal forge versus my new propane one for a week

I was sure my clean propane rig was the way to go, but I borrowed his dirty coal set up to fix a big leaf spring. The heat control with coal was just better, I could really see the color and move the steel around in the fire. It took me three tries to get the right temper with propane, but got it in one go with the coal. Anyone else find they get a better feel for the metal with a traditional forge?

4 comments

4 Comments

paul8729d ago

Had the same thing happen when I tried to forge weld some chain links. The propane was clean and easy, but the coal fire just gave a more even, soaking heat. Could actually see the flux bubble properly. Went back to a hand crank blower and a pile of bituminous for anything that needs real finesse.

thomas44129d ago

Is it really that big of a deal?

holly70929d ago

Yeah, coal just has that feel, you know?

fionafoster5d ago

Forgot how coal just holds heat better... @paul87 gets it.