7 Best Old Anvil Brands: A Guide to Finding Quality

  1. Peter Wright
  2. Mousehole
  3. Fisher-Norris
  4. Hay-Budden
  5. Trenton
  6. Kohlswa
  7. Columbian

Old Anvil Brands, including iconic names like Peter Wright, Mousehole Forge, and Fisher Norris, hold a special place in the world of blacksmithing. Their necessity lies in the superior craftsmanship they represent, showcasing the skills and dedication of blacksmiths from bygone eras. These anvils are not just tools; they are durable artifacts that have withstood the test of time.

The historical significance attached to these brands is profound, reflecting the evolution of metalworking over centuries. The benefits of choosing anvils from these established brands are evident in the authenticity they guarantee, the collector’s value they hold due to historical importance, and the use of high-quality steel that ensures exceptional performance. Investing in old anvil brands is more than acquiring a tool; it’s embracing a legacy of tradition, durability, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

Historical Significance of Anvil Brands

The historical significance of anvils is a captivating journey through the annals of human civilization, marked by their indispensable role in the development of metalworking. Anvils have left an indelible imprint on history, with archaeological discoveries dating back to 2000 BCE in regions like Egypt and Mesopotamia.

The Middle Ages witnessed an anvil renaissance, as artisans refined designs to meet the escalating demands of burgeoning blacksmithing trades. By the 18th century, the Industrial Revolution elevated anvil production, ushering in metallurgical advancements that bolstered both durability and functionality.

Iconic designs such as the London pattern anvils, virtually unchanged since the 19th century, attest to their enduring efficacy. Production numbers from esteemed historical brands like Mousehole Forge, spanning the 1700s to the early 1900s, emphasize the widespread use and demand for these vital tools during pivotal periods of industrial growth. In essence, anvils stand not only as witnesses to history but active contributors to the evolution of metalworking, embodying a legacy that spans thousands of years and various cultures.

List of Best Old Brands of Anvils

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Peter Wright was a renowned British anvil maker who lived from 1799 to 1879. He was born in Dudley, England, and started his apprenticeship in blacksmithing at the age of 14. After completing his training, he became a skilled blacksmith and began producing his anvils.

Wright’s anvils were known for their high-quality construction and durability, and they quickly gained popularity among blacksmiths in England and around the world. He was particularly famous for his solid wrought iron anvils, which had a distinctive shape and were often marked with his name and location.

Wright was also a pioneer in the use of cast iron in anvil production, which allowed for more affordable and mass-produced anvils. His cast iron anvils were known for their durability and were used extensively in the Industrial Revolution.

Today, Peter Wright anvils are considered some of the best old anvil brands in the world and are highly sought after by blacksmiths and collectors alike. They are known for their exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and unique design, which has become synonymous with the name Peter Wright.

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Mousehole Forge (Former), Malin Bridge, Sheffield – 2 via Wikimedia Commons

Mousehole, a quaint village on England’s southwestern coast, boasts a profound legacy in metalworking, primarily attributed to the renowned Mousehole Forge. Established in the early 19th century by William Foster and his son, the forge gained global acclaim for crafting superlative wrought iron anvils. Mousehole anvils, distinguished by their distinctive curves and tapered horns, became iconic, and coveted by blacksmiths worldwide.

These anvils, fashioned from a blend of wrought and cast iron, epitomized exceptional craftsmanship and durability. Operational until the early 20th century, Mousehole Forge succumbed to economic shifts and waning demand for traditional metalworking tools. Despite its closure, the legacy of Mousehole anvils is, revered by collectors and metalworkers.

Today, the converted Mousehole Forge stands as a museum, commemorating the village’s metalworking history. Exhibits showcase traditional techniques, and a collection of Mousehole anvils and tools, underscoring the enduring impact of Mousehole’s contribution to the global metalworking heritage.

anvil museum logo scaled

Fisher-Norris is a historic American anvil manufacturer that operated from 1843 until the mid-20th century. The company was founded by Samuel Fisher and Samuel Norris in Trenton, New Jersey, and quickly became known for producing high-quality anvils that were widely used by blacksmiths and metalworkers throughout the United States.

Fisher-Norris anvils were renowned for their durability and unique design, which featured a distinctive eagle logo stamped on the side. The anvils were made using a combination of wrought and cast iron, which made them tough enough to withstand heavy use and provided a sturdy base for metalworking projects.

During the 19th and early 20th centuries, Fisher-Norris anvils were used in a variety of industries, including shipbuilding, railroad construction, and manufacturing. The company also produced a range of other metalworking tools, such as hammers, chisels, and tongs.

Despite its success, Fisher-Norris eventually faced competition from other anvil manufacturers and changing economic conditions, and the company ceased production in the mid-20th century. However, Fisher-Norris anvils remain highly prized possessions for collectors and metalworkers, and they are still considered some of the best old anvil brands in the world.

Hay-Budden was a prominent American anvil manufacturer that operated from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. The company was founded by William Hay and Charles Budden in Brooklyn, New York, and quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality anvils that were widely used by blacksmiths and metalworkers throughout the United States.

The Vintage Hay-Budden Anvil Blacksmithing Sweatshirt

Hay-Budden anvils were known for their durability and unique design, which featured a distinctive logo of an eagle with its wings outstretched. The anvils were made using a combination of wrought and cast iron, which made them tough enough to withstand heavy use and provided a sturdy base for metalworking projects.

The company’s success was due in part to its innovative manufacturing techniques, which allowed for the production of high-quality anvils at a lower cost than its competitors. Hay-Budden anvils were also known for their consistency in weight and shape, which made them popular among blacksmiths and metalworkers who needed a reliable and consistent tool for their craft.

Despite its success, Hay-Budden eventually faced competition from other anvil manufacturers and changing economic conditions, and the company ceased production in the mid-20th century. However, Hay-Budden anvils remain highly prized possessions for collectors and metalworkers, and they are still considered some of the best old anvil brands in the world.

Trenton was a leading American anvil manufacturer that operated from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. The company was based in Trenton, New Jersey, and was known for producing high-quality anvils that were popular among blacksmiths and metalworkers throughout the United States and beyond.

Trenton anvils were known for their distinctive design, which featured a sharp horn and a flat face with a wide heel. They were made using a combination of wrought and cast iron, which made them durable and long-lasting. The anvils were known for their consistent weight and shape, making them popular among metalworkers who needed a reliable and consistent tool for their craft.

One of the key factors in Trenton’s success was its commitment to quality and innovation. The company invested heavily in research and development and was constantly looking for ways to improve its manufacturing processes and create new and better products for its customers. This commitment to excellence helped Trenton become one of the most respected and successful anvil manufacturers in the world.

Kohlswa is a Swedish anvil manufacturer that has been in operation since 1844. The company is known for producing high-quality anvils that are popular among blacksmiths and metalworkers around the world.

Kohlswa anvils are made from a special type of high-grade Swedish steel, which is known for its strength, durability, and ability to hold up under heavy use. The anvils are also known for their unique design, which features a flat face, a rounded horn, and a tapered heel.

One of the things that set Kohlswa apart from other anvil manufacturers is its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The company uses renewable energy sources in its manufacturing processes, and it strives to minimize its impact on the environment wherever possible.

In addition to anvils, Kohlswa also produces a wide range of other tools and equipment for metalworking, including hammers, tongs, and punches. The company’s products are used by metalworkers and blacksmiths of all skill levels, from beginners to experts.

How Much Did Blacksmiths Earn in the 1800s and 1900s?

Columbian is a former American manufacturer of high-quality anvils that was based in Cleveland, Ohio. The company was founded in the late 1800s and quickly became known for its innovative designs and superior craftsmanship.

Columbian anvils were made from a special type of steel known for their strength and durability, and they featured a unique double-horn design that made them especially versatile for a wide range of metalworking tasks. The anvils were also known for their distinctive eagle logo, which was embossed on the side of each one.

Over the years, Columbian became one of the most respected names in the world of metalworking, and its anvils were used by blacksmiths and metalworkers all over the world. However, like many American manufacturers, the company eventually fell on hard times due to competition from cheaper imported products, and it ceased operations in the early 2000s.

Despite its closure, Columbian anvils remain highly sought after by collectors and metalworking enthusiasts today. They are prized for their quality, durability, and unique design, and they serve as a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of American manufacturing in the early 20th century.

How to Choose the Right Anvil Brand

Choosing the right anvil brand is a crucial decision for blacksmiths and metalworkers. Several factors contribute to the selection process.

Firstly, consider the reputation and history of the brand. Established brands with a legacy often indicate quality craftsmanship. Assess the type of work you’ll be undertaking, as different brands may excel in specific applications.

Weight is a critical factor; select an anvil weight that aligns with your forging needs. Examine the material and construction quality, ensuring it meets industry standards for durability. Additionally, seek anvils with ergonomic designs that facilitate efficient work.

Reviews and testimonials from experienced users can provide valuable insights into the performance of different brands. Ultimately, the right anvil brand aligns with your specific requirements, combining a reputable history, suitable weight, and quality construction to enhance your metalworking endeavors.

Conclusion

Old anvil brands are a testament to the skill, craftsmanship, and innovation of early metalworking manufacturers. Brands like Peter Wright, Mousehole, Fisher-Norris, Hay-Budden, Trenton, Kohlswa, and Columbian are highly prized by collectors and metalworking enthusiasts for their quality, durability, and unique designs.

If you’re looking to buy an old anvil, it’s important to do your research and carefully examine the condition and suitability for your intended use. But with a little care and attention, an old anvil can be a valuable and highly functional addition to any metalworking shop.

FAQs:

What is an anvil?

An anvil is a heavy metal block used in metalworking to shape, forge, and repair metal objects.

Why are old anvil brands so highly prized?

Old anvil brands are prized for enduring craftsmanship, historical significance, and superior quality, connecting users to a rich metalworking legacy.

Where are Anvil brand tools made?

Anvil brand tools are manufactured in various locations globally, with production facilities ensuring quality and craftsmanship across diverse regions.

What anvil does forged in fire use?

Forged in Fire uses a variety of anvils, including brands like Nimba, Emerson, and Euroanvils, showcasing versatility in blacksmithing.

Where can I find old anvils for sale?

Old anvils can be found for sale at antique shops, online marketplaces, and specialty metalworking stores. However, it’s important to be careful when buying an old anvil, as many sellers may not know the specific brand or model.