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Choosing between a new gas forge and fixing my old coal one

My old rivet forge finally gave out last month, and I had to pick between buying a new two-burner gas forge for about $600 or rebuilding the firepot and tuyere on the coal one. I went with the gas forge because I got a big order for fifty fireplace sets and needed the steady, clean heat. It's been a game changer for production work, but I do miss the control I had with coal for certain scrolls. Anyone else switch from coal to gas and find some things harder to do?
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3 Comments
claire_ramirez22
My buddy who switched said he had to relearn how to do fine work with a gas torch for those tight bends. The steady heat is great for batches but doesn't move like a coal fire. It's a trade-off for sure.
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valwest
valwest16d ago
Sounds like you traded a fiddle for a factory whistle. Sure, the gas forge pumps out those fireplace sets, but good luck getting that sweet spot for a perfect spiral like you could with a coal bed. Guess you'll just have to make up for it by buying a fancy scroll jig with all your new profits.
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ben436
ben43616d ago
Gas forges kill the art of the small bend.
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