Whether you are a hobbyist or a professional, if you are into blacksmithing, you will need a forge. This becomes especially critical for those who are into designing and forging knives.
The right kind of forge may be vital in deciding whether or not your precious project turns out the way you want it to.
Thus, I am here to guide you through just that. Several things go into deciding whether a forge is right for you or not, and I will explain those for some of the best products out there today. This is our review of the best gas forges for knife making.
Top Picks:
- Best Overall: Hell’s Forge Double Burner
- Runner Up: Cast Master Elite CMF 2000
- Best Value: Hell’s Forge MAX
- Best Budget: Simond Store Single Burner
- Best for Beginners: Hell’s Forge Single Burner
- Best for Sword Making: Simond Store Triple Burner
- Best for Welding: NC Whisper Momma Open End
Best Knife Making Forges for Beginners – [Top Picks of 2023]
Here are the 8 best propane forge for knife making you need to know.
1. Hell’s Forge Portable Double Burner Propane Gas Forge – Best Overall
Key Points:
- Produces high temperature.
- Good exposure to flame.
- Suitable for large projects.
- Coated with protective ceramic fiber that extends the lifespan.
- The space inside the firebrick and insulation is rather narrow.
- The fire bricks included are not very robust.
Our top pick for the best gas forge for knife makers is this portable forge from Hell’s Forge. When it comes to picking a blacksmith forge, there are several reasons why this should be at the top of your wish list.
It comes with a double burner that is capable of reaching up to 2300F and is capable of handling any large projects that you may have in mind.
This thing is quite big in size and offers a good exposure to the flame. It is also coated with a ceramic fiber blanket that extends its lifespan. Moreover, you’ll love knowing that one container full of the HELLCOAT 3000 Refractory Coating comes free with it, which is a great plus.
Lastly, it comes with two full-sized fire bricks that you can use for the bottom.
2. CAST Master Elite CMF 2000 Portable Double Burner Propane Gas Forge – Runner Up
Key Points:
- Can handle large projects.
- High temperature.
- Excellent built quality.
- Comes with 2 fire bricks.
- Doesn’t come with refractory cement.
The CAST Master Elite CMF 2000 portable double burner knife making forge is the latest and largest forge from this brand. Their propane furnace is very popular amongst various jewellery makers out there.
Finally, they’re offering an excellent oval-shaped gas forge to the metalworkers, especially knife makers. This gas forge includes double propane burners that can stretch the temperature up to 2433F, which allows you to work with almost all kinds of metals.
This knife making gas forge comes with two refractory fire bricks for the bottom part. The 1.5″ Kaowool fire blanket insulation holds up the temperature very well and ensures even-heat throughout the forge.
3. Simond Store Portable Single Burner Propane Blacksmith Knife Forge – Best Value
Key Points:
- Portable.
- High-temperature forge.
- Protective ceramic fiber coating that adds longevity.
- Oval design helps small projects.
- The ball valve is not very tightly assembled.
- The gas outlet hole is not very well drilled into the pipe.
This gas forge is from Simond Store – a great brand. It is an easily movable, propane-fueled single burner furnace that can reach up to 2600F in temperature. In terms of function, it is a good fit for the bending and tempering of metal for a variety of projects.
The forge is made of 1.5 mm well-polished stainless steel (SS-304) metal sheets. There is a 1-inch thick ceramic fiber coating that adds longevity, and a single piece refractory fire brick comes free with it.
Its oval design makes it easier to use for smaller projects. The gas connection is designed to automatically be incompatible with national gas supplies of multiple countries such as the USA, Australia, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and others.
4. Hell’s Forge MAX Propane Knife Forge – Best for the Money
Key Points:
- Large working space and high-temperature capacity.
- Coated with ceramic fiber lining for improved longevity.
- Comes with 0-30 psi regulator.
- May not be suitable for forge welding.
- The insulating blanket may not cover the entire area.
Up next, I have this propane-powered forge from Hell’s Forge. This American-made, double-furnace forge can give you up to 2300F heat and comes with a 0-30 psi regulator. In addition, it’s relatively large and suitable for big projects. So, if you are intending to work on something big, give this one a try.
In addition, flame exposure is adequate and covers the “sweet spot”. The assembly is made of stainless steel and comes with two fire bricks of size 9 inches by 4.5 inches by 1.25 inches.
This forge, too, is coated with a ceramic fiber lining that adds to its longevity, and a HELLCOAT 3000 Refractory coating comes free with it. Given the comparatively low price, I would say this is the best product for the money.
5. Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge – Best Budget Gas Forge
Key Points:
- High-temperature capacity.
- Good tensile strength.
- Free stand for supporting tong as the charge is placed inside the forge.
- It may take a fair bit of time to buildup enough pressure from the gas supply.
- The burner may need frequent adjustment.
For our fifth pick, I have another propane forge from Simond Store. This consists of a single burner furnace that can generate temperatures of up to 2600F. Like our other choices, this forge is lined with a 1-inch ceramic fiber layer.
It shows considerable tensile strength and resistance to damage by flames. A special stand comes free with it, helping support the tong as the charge is taken in and out of the forge. Refractory fire brick can be found at its bottom, the purpose of which is to protect against very rapid firing.
Due to its service and relatively cheaper price tag, this is a good option if you are on the lookout for the best budget gas forge.
6. Hell’s Forge Portable Propane Knife Making Forge (Single Burner)
Key Points:
- Well-suited for small projects.
- HELLCOAT 3000 Refractory Coating comes free with it.
- High-temperature capacity.
- The forge is open at the back.
- The legs are irregularly sized so you may have to build your own resting perch for this forge.
After this, I have yet another forge from Hell’s Forge. As the name implies, this is another relatively lightweight propane forge. It is a single burner furnace with a maximum temperature capacity of 2300F and is ideally suited for smaller projects such as steel knives.
The oval design is meant to give good exposure to the flame’s sweet spot. As has been the case for the rest of this list, this product, too, is lined with a 1-inch ceramic fiber layer and comes with the HELLCOAT 3000 Refractory Coating.
Lastly, it also has a full-sized fire brick at the bottom, which is a welcome addition.
7. Simond Store Triple Burner Blacksmithing/Knife Making Propane Gas Forge
Key Points:
- Large heating zone.
- High-temperature capacity.
- Efficient fuel usage.
- Ceramic fiber insulation.
- The hinges are rather thin and can warp with excess heat.
- The piping is not of the highest standard.
Our penultimate entry is this triple burner forge from Simond Store. The design gives you a large heating zone area, and the temperature can go up to 2600F. The forge is rectangular and is very well suited for small projects.
It is lined with 1-inch ceramic fiber insulation, and fuel usage is comparatively efficient, making this a cost-effective option for the long term.
The gas connection is designed to automatically be incompatible with national gas supplies of multiple countries such as the USA, Australia, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and others.
Structurally, its oval design makes it easier to use for smaller projects. It is made of 1.5 mm polished stainless steel.
8. Simond Store Double Burner Oval Knife Making Gas Forge
Key Points:
- Oval design.
- Suitable for small projects.
- 1-inch ceramic fiber lining for insulation, helping with the longevity of the product.
- The gas tank connections are not of the highest standard.
- The feeder pipe to the second burner can be improved
Finally, capping off our list is this double burner forge from Simond Store. This is a propane-powered double furnace that can give you working temperatures of up to 2600F.
Its constituent material is 1.5 mm polished stainless steel, and the gas connection is designed to work automatically with the national supply lines of USA, Australia, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, and others.
It has an oval design and is ideal for working on smaller projects such as steel knives. Like every other member of our list, it too has a 1-inch ceramic fiber insulation lining.
Best Beginner Forge for Knife Making – [Updated Buying Guide]
I made a list of the essential points you should know before buying one of the best gas forges for knife making. I recommend you to have a look at the gas forge buyer’s guide below.
1. Shape and Size
Gas forges are available in different forms. The common types are the box, vertical tube, horizontal tube, and more. You can choose the one you want because that will not make any considerable difference.
The size of the forge is a vital thing to consider. Make sure the volume is large enough so that you can forge swords, Damascus billets, and odd shapes efficiently with less effort.
2. Burner and Regulator
There are two types of burners available for a gas forge – Venturi and Forced Air. Venturi burners are simple, easy to operate, quiet, and safe. Forced air burners are more efficient but costly, loud, and less secure.
Most of the blacksmiths use the Venturi burners for their gas forges. A single burner forge will not provide excellent performance; a minimum of two will be efficient for forging.
You can use any regulator – double gauge or single gauge. But for a gas forge, a propane specific two gauge regulator that will show you inlet and outlet pressure will be a wise choice.
3. Insulation
Insulating fibers, firebricks, and castable refractories – these are the three common types of insulations for a gas forge. Insulating fibers are excellent; they do not absorb that much heat but don’t last long.
Firebricks come in different grades – soft, hard, etc. It will take more time than the insulating fibers to come up to an efficient temperature for forging.
Castable refractories last long, but they absorb lots of heat, and the forge will take more time to reach a certain level of temperature.
Frequently Asked Question – FAQs
What is a Gas Forge?
A gas forge is an essential tool for a Blacksmith to heat metals for forging. It uses natural gas or propane gas as fuel. Gas forges are available in different shapes – box, vertical, horizontal, etc.
How Does a Gas Forge Work?
Gas forges use propane or natural gas to make the fire for heating metals. Gas flows from a tank to the forge through a burner. You can control the gas flow by a regulator.
Once gas starts to flow into the forge, you’ll need to fire it up, and the forge will begin heating up. Different kinds of insulators are used inside the forge to maintain the temperature.
How hot does a gas forge get?
A quality Gas Forge temperature can climb between 1200 – 1500 degrees Celsius. If it’s only air your forge is getting from the choke point, the temperature will be a bit low.
On the other hand, pure oxygen will increase the temperature rapidly.
How much propane does a gas forge use?
The answer to the question will always depend on various factors like PSI and how frequently you are using the forge. On average, you could use around 2.5 pounds of gas per hour at 8 PSI.
How long will a 20-lb propane tank last in a gas forge?
From a 20 lb propane tank, you would be looking at 7 to 8 hours of continuous usage. That’s very decent for many hobbyists who spend only a few hours in the shop.
What is a Gas Forge Burner?
A gas forge burner provides heat into the forge. Gas flows from a gas tank to the forge chamber through the burner. Forge burners are available in two types – Venturi and Forced Air.
What Regulator to use for Gas Forge?
A propane specific dual gauge regulator is the right choice for a propane gas forge. You can also use any regulator, and that will work just fine.
Gas Forge Vs. Coal Forge – Which is better for you?
For a beginner, the gas forge is the right option to start. If you want to forge regular-shaped metal, it will work fine for your needs.
On the other hand, a coal forge is versatile. It’s a great option to work with odd-shaped items that require a localized heat zone.
Coal forge produces smoke, and the shop gets dirty. To use a coal forge, you’ll need to know how to control the fire.
Final Words
So you have our review on the best gas forges for knife making available on the market. Besides, I included everything you required to know about best knife forges in our buying guide segment.
Now it’s your turn to choose the appropriate forge for your requirements.
The Hell’s Forge Portable Double Burner Gas Forge is our top pick. If you’re looking for a well-built forge for regular use, it will satisfy your requirements.
The MAX Propane Forge from Hell’s Forge is another great forge, which offers excellent value for the money you’re paying.
If you’re on a budget, then Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge will be a wise choice for your needs.
Related Buying Guides
Looking to get my husband set up to start forging knives any and all help welcome. The best forge, anvil, hammers, etc… Also looking for the most affordable route but not cheap he has been talking about this for a while. I’m almost positive he will take it in as a hobby, but if he likes something I know it will definitely turn onto something bigger and I don’t want just. TIA.
Hey Wendy,
Thanks for the comment.
Please go through the comparison table and our reviews, you’ll find a suitable forge for your husband.
And, we also have in-depth articles on other tools you’re looking for.
We always mention who should use the products on our reviews, so it’s easy for you to choose. Take care. Stay Home, Stay Safe.
Regards,
Robert
Cast Master is NOT made in the USA