Forge: Coal vs charcoal? Why I'm building a charcoal forge. FarmCraft101

Charcoal seems to be the red-headed step child of the forging world, as most use either propane or coal. But charcoal has many advantages. 1- It's free. I make my own in large batches in my wood boiler. 2- No clinkers! I don't need a clinker breaker or to clean out the grate regularly. 3- Lights easily. Literally from cold/off to forging temp fire in less than 60 seconds. 4- Minimal fire management. There's no spraying water, monitoring coal/coke ratios, etc. It's a charcoal fire. It's hot. Nuff said.

Which is better, coal or charcoal for a forge? Opinions will vary, but mine is that charcoal wins. Charcoal is clean, effective, easy to use, renewable, and free with a little work.

Total cost on this forge was under $100. End result is a nice big forge that will last me for years. I spent $50 on the blower (amazon), and another $50 at a scrap yard, but I have a lot of metal left over.

Next stop...ANVIL!

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