The Armour Archive

Hey, I am posting on behalf of a friend here. He is looking to buy a pretty beat up swage block for his father in law, to do basic forging with. What is a decent price for one and does anyone have one/know where to get one? All questions appreciated and will elaborate as I/he finds out more.

I don't know about "a pretty beat up" swage block, but there are a couple places you can get a new one.

Check ebay - I noticed that there are a couple small swage blocks up for auction at reasonable prices right now. There's one that's going for $99 right now. Most of them are meant to be vice-mounted, though.

Also check ironmonger - he sells "armorer" swage blocks new for $200. He may have beat up stuff in stock - I'm pretty sure he checks flea markets and antique stores for "junk" that people like us really want.

I'll share a piece of wisdom with you I gained at Pennsic. It sounds pretty basic, but it goes like this: check prices, check auctions, bid, and if you don't get it, you weren't willing to spend enough.

There will probably be a number of them for sale at the Quad-State Blacksmith's round-up Sept 23-25th in Troy OH.

Though most likely not like the year a fellow cam in with a flatbed of them for sale. Sigh.

Thomas