Heating the forge... yep, another question

[Rusty Snuffers]

I'm building a two-brick forge and plan on using a mapp torch to heat it.  I've seen several folks mention using the BernzOmatic TS7000 torch, here and on other forging and knifemaking forums.  Does anyone have any experience with the TS8000 they sell at Lowes?

Thanks again,
Rusty

[kansas stik man]

i dont know much obout those but i know tons of guys love the weed burning torches at farm stores . put out good btu's.  i have a forced air forge and love it.  coal for me is not an option at all. but why you building only a two brick forge?   i hate to say it knowing that i have been tight for money before but you will kick yourself for not building a bigger forge to start with.  i have about 300 in mine and works like a charm just takes some time and welding skills.  let me know if ya need any help

[akaboomer]

I used a weed burning torch for mine and a hairdryer for the blower. The body is an empty R134a freon tank. I lined it with Kao Wool and Satanite. It will reach welding temp. I have about $75 in it including the propane tank.

Chris

[Rusty Snuffers]

See this thread?  Threads like this are why I both love and hate this site.  I love all the great information and points of view, but I hate having to re-think everything and put off building what I thought I wanted.   :D

Seriously, thanks for the input guys.  I'm looking for something that I can build and operate economically.  The two-brick forge is supposed to heat quickly and be fairly efficient with regards to gas usage, from what I've read.  I had originally considered building one that I can hook to my propane tank from the grill and would still go that route if it makes sense to do so.  Reading Chris' reply above makes me think that's a good way to go.

Here's the one I was thinking of building...

   Two-Brick Forge

If I can find a freon tank and the fittings I need to do propane, maybe that's a better/cheaper way to go?

Hmm...

[gables]

You could build you a forced air forge for not much more than the money you are going to spend on the bricks and benzomatic. I spent about $200 putting mine together. I bought all the plumbing parts at local hardware stores and ordered a blower from Surpluscenter.com. I used an 11gal air tank from harbor freight and lined it with kaowool and satanite. I later invested in a 3" stainless pipe and thermocouple for heat treating. By throttling the gas I am able to hold temps for soaking +/- 3 degrees. Here are a few helpful links. I am going to use castable refractory to line my next forge. Feel free to contact me for questions and pictures if needed.

 http://zoellerforge.com/  (make sure to look at the forge gallery)

 http://www.dfoggknives.com/forge.htm

 http://www.hightemptools.com/index.html

 http://ronreil.abana.org/design1.shtml