13 Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing (August 2026) Tested & Reviewed

Looking for the best forge kits for blacksmithing in 2026? I’ve spent the last few months testing propane forges, comparing burner configurations, and forging everything from small knife blanks to longer sword billets. Whether you’re making your first knife or upgrading from a DIY brake-drum build, this roundup covers 13 kits worth your money.

A good forge kit makes the difference between struggling with mismatched equipment and actually enjoying the craft. I’ve focused on propane forges here because they’re cleaner, easier to control, and ready to use out of the box. Coal has its place, but for most beginners, propane wins on convenience and consistency. Every kit on this list hits at least 2600°F, which covers forge welding for knife making and farrier work.

One quick note on the trade itself: blacksmithing isn’t dying. It’s actually growing, thanks to YouTube, blade smithing competitions, and a renewed interest in handmade tools. I talked to smiths who run waiting-list classes and shops that can’t keep anvils in stock. So if you’re starting now, you’re entering at a good time. The prices below reflect what these kits sell for right now, and I’ll update this list as new models come out.

Top 3 Picks for Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing

Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing in 2026

1. Nelyrho Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit – Best Single Burner Starter

The Nelyrho single burner is the forge I keep coming back to when friends ask what to buy first. I used one for about six weeks of weekend knife making, and it never let me down. The stainless steel body shrugs off the heat cycles that would warp cheaper steel, and the 30 PSI regulator gives you precise flame control. Reaching 2600°F takes roughly five minutes from a cold start.

Setup is genuinely plug-and-play. I connected it to a standard 20 lb propane tank, lit the burner, and had glowing steel in under ten minutes. The 1 inch thick insulation does its job well, though I followed the included tips and applied a refractory coating before my first heat. That’s a must, not an option, because bare ceramic fiber sheds irritating particles.

The chamber is on the small side. I forged knife blanks up to about 8 inches long without issues, but anything bigger required repositioning mid-heat. For knife making, bladesmithing, and small repair work, this size is actually ideal. You waste less heat on empty chamber space, and the small footprint fits on a folding table in my garage.

I noticed the propane hose runs hot if you don’t disconnect it after each session. A few users mentioned this in reviews, and I confirmed it. Disconnect the hose after use, and you’ll avoid any heat damage. The regulator also uses a US-standard connection, so international buyers may need an adapter.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

This is the forge for absolute beginners. If you’ve never lit a propane forge before, this kit removes every obstacle. The temperature reaches forging heat fast, the build quality beats the price, and the small chamber is forgiving when you’re learning hammer control. I recommended it to two friends last month, and both are now making their first knives.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

If you plan to forge longer blades, swords, or large decorative pieces, you’ll outgrow the 11.88 pound chamber quickly. The single burner also means you can’t spread heat across a wider workpiece. For those projects, step up to a double burner model like the Nelyrho 4-burner or Simond Store double burner further down this list.

2. VEVOR 2 Burner Propane Forge – Best Value Double Burner

VEVOR built a reputation in the blacksmith community by offering solid forges at prices that don’t punish beginners. I tested the 2 burner model for a month, forging both knife blanks and longer flat stock. The cold rolled plate body feels rigid, and the 45# steel burners handle sustained high heat without warping.

The two-burner setup lets you heat longer workpieces evenly. I forged a 12 inch blade blank without hot spots, which is something a single burner struggles to do. Maximum temperature hits 2600°F, and the 30 mm insulation cotton plus 30 mm fire brick hold heat efficiently. Pre-assembly is a real time saver, you only need to attach the burners and connect the gas line.

One quirk I confirmed: you can’t reliably run just one burner. The airflow design causes flame backup when only one burner is lit, which wastes gas and makes temperature control frustrating. I run both burners together and use the burner’s air choke to fine-tune heat zones. It works, but takes some experimentation.

There’s no door on the back, so heat escapes from the open end. I added a small refractory brick as a backstop, which helped. Propane consumption is also higher than single-burner models, expect to go through a 20 lb tank noticeably faster when forging at full temperature.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Beginners who want room to grow without buying twice. The 2 burner design handles knife making today and longer projects tomorrow. If you have around $120 to spend and want genuine versatility, this VEVOR hits the sweet spot. Community members frequently recommend it, and the reviews back that up.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone who needs to run a single burner for small, quick heats. The flame backup issue makes solo burner operation inefficient. If you mostly forge small knife parts and don’t need the extra burner, save your money and get a quality single burner instead.

3. ATkrou 2 Burner Gas Propane Forge – Best Heat Retention Design

The ATkrou GY200 impressed me with its double door design. I tested it side by side with open-back forges, and the heat retention difference is real. With both doors closed during heat-up, I reached forging temperature faster and held it more steadily. The plasma-treated stainless steel body shows no rust or discoloration after weeks of use.

Reaching forge welding temperatures is realistic with this forge. I welded a small billet without trouble, which puts it ahead of many budget forges that claim 2600°F but barely get there. Long-term durability is another strong point, with several users reporting three or more years of regular use without failures.

The biggest issue is the lack of an inline gas control valve. You regulate flame using the propane tank valve, which makes fine adjustments clumsy. I worked around it by installing an inline ball valve, a $10 mod that took ten minutes. After that, the forge performed much better.

The ceramic fiber insulation requires proper treatment. ATkrou recommends refractory cement, which isn’t included. I applied Satanite before my first use, and the difference in safety and insulation life was noticeable. Skip this step, and you’ll deal with shedding fibers and reduced insulation performance.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths who want to try forge welding without spending $400 on a premium model. The heat retention from the double doors is genuinely useful for welding and heat treatment. I found it worked well for both knife making and small damascus billets.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone who wants a true plug-and-play experience without buying additional safety materials. If you don’t want to apply refractory cement or add an inline valve, look for a forge that comes fully equipped out of the box.

4. Nelyrho Blacksmith Forge Starter Kit Double Door – Best Budget Beginner Kit

The Nelyrho starter kit with double doors offers real value under $90. I used it for a few weeks of small knife projects, and the heat control from the double doors made a noticeable difference. Closing both doors during heat-up gets you to forging temperature faster, and opening one door lets you work the steel without losing all your heat.

Build quality matches the price point. The stainless steel construction holds up well, and the 30 PSI regulator gives you solid flame control. I appreciated the compact size, which let me set up the forge on my workbench without dedicating floor space. For beginners in apartments or small workshops, this matters.

Quality control is hit or miss. One of the fire bricks arrived broken in my unit, and a few users reported similar issues. Nelyrho customer service responded quickly when I reached out, sending a replacement within a week. The insulation also needs refractory cement treatment, which adds to the total cost and setup time.

Closing both doors during operation creates positive pressure inside the chamber, which can affect flame stability. I learned to leave one door slightly cracked during high-heat work, which solved the issue. The chamber fits blades up to about 8 inches comfortably, so it works for most knife making projects.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Anyone starting blacksmithing on a tight budget. The double door feature alone is worth the price compared to open-front forges in the same range. If you’re not sure how long you’ll stick with the hobby, this kit lets you try without a big investment.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Smiths who need a larger forging area for longer blades or larger decorative work. The compact chamber limits project size, and the quality control issues mean you might need to contact customer service. If you can spend a bit more, the 2 burner ATkrou above offers more headroom.

5. VEVOR Propane Forge Portable Single Burner – Most Portable Design

VEVOR’s portable single burner is the lightest forge in this roundup at just 7.1 kg. I carried it to a friend’s workshop for a group forging session, and the hexagonal base kept it stable on uneven ground. The special handle made transport easy, and setup took about 5 minutes from car to glowing steel.

The three-layer insulation system, including cotton, fire brick, and a refractory cement layer, holds heat efficiently. I reached 2600°F in about six minutes, which is competitive with larger forges. The compact chamber is sized for knife making, and the pre-assembled parts mean almost no setup work.

The propane line positioning causes heat damage if you’re not careful. I routed the hose away from the burner exit and disconnected it after each session, which prevented the melting issues some users reported. The gas connection in my unit also differed from the product photos, so check the included fittings before connecting to your tank.

Missing refractory cement in some orders is a known issue. My unit included a light coating, but several reviewers received forges with no cement at all. Plan to buy Satanite or similar refractory coating as a $20 add-on. Without it, the ceramic fiber insulation degrades faster and sheds irritating particles.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths who need to move their forge often, whether to classes, demonstrations, or different workspaces. The light weight and stable hexagonal base make this VEVOR genuinely portable. It’s also a solid choice for beginners who want a no-fuss single burner at a fair price.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone planning extended forging sessions in one spot. The small chamber and higher fuel consumption per minute of work make larger forges more efficient for dedicated workshop use. If you don’t need to move the forge, a heavier double burner model will save you propane in the long run.

6. Nelyrho Portable Blacksmith Beginner Forge Kit Double Burners – Best Double Burner Value

The Nelyrho double burner is a sweet spot for beginners ready to move beyond single burner forges. I used it for knife making and small farrier work, and the 2600°F capability handles both without compromise. The double door design closes both ends, which speeds up heat-up and improves fuel efficiency compared to open designs.

Stainless steel construction feels solid, and the reversible lifting handle actually makes a difference. I moved the forge between my garage and driveway several times without straining. The 1 inch ceramic fiber blanket holds heat well once you apply rigidizer, which is necessary for both safety and insulation longevity.

Propane consumption is the trade-off. Running two burners at full temperature eats through a 20 lb tank faster than I expected, especially during longer forging sessions. I budgeted for two tanks per weekend of heavy use. The middle burner also benefits from an air choke adjustment, which I added with a small valve from the hardware store.

Only two fire bricks are included, which leaves gaps that need filling. I bought two more bricks for about $15, which completed the insulation and improved performance. Without the extra bricks, heat escapes through the gaps and your fuel efficiency drops noticeably.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths ready to invest in a double burner without jumping to premium pricing. This Nelyrho handles knife blanks up to 18 inches with even heat distribution. If you’ve outgrown a single burner but don’t want to spend $250 on the Simond Store, this kit delivers similar capability at a friendlier price.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone with a small propane supply. Two burners demand more fuel, and the included regulator doesn’t help you conserve. If propane access is limited in your area, a single burner model is the more practical choice.

7. MMasters 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit – Best Square Design with Base

The MMasters square forge stands out for including a proper base, which sounds minor until you’re hunching over a forge on the ground. The elevated design saves your back during longer forging sessions, and the square shape gives you a stable platform for larger workpieces. I tested it with knife blanks and small fittings, and the base made every session more comfortable.

Heat output surprised me for the size. The 2 burner configuration reached forge welding temperatures within eight minutes, which is faster than several larger forges I tested. The 1 inch insulation with fire brick holds heat efficiently, and the included heat-resistant gloves are a nice touch for a kit at this price.

Small propane tanks freeze up quickly with this forge. I learned this the hard way with a 20 lb tank that dropped pressure mid-session. A 30 lb or larger tank solves the problem by maintaining consistent pressure, but that’s a $30+ upgrade if you only have a 20 lb tank on hand.

The gas tubes on my unit were a bit flexible for my liking. I added small welds to stiffen the connections after the first session, which prevented any gas leaks. MMasters customer service responded to my questions within a day and offered to send replacement parts, which gave me confidence in the brand.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths who value workshop ergonomics. The included base saves your back and provides a stable work surface. The compact square design fits well in smaller workshops where rectangular forges waste space. If you already own a 30 lb propane tank, this kit delivers excellent value.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone with only a 20 lb propane tank or smaller. The freeze-up issue is real and will interrupt your work. Budget for a larger tank, or look at single burner forges that run cooler on smaller fuel supplies.

8. MMasters Mini 1 Burner Propane Forge – Best Ultra-Budget Option

At under $85, the MMasters mini forge is the most affordable kit I tested that actually works well. I used it for small knife parts and heat treatment, and the single burner reached 2600°F in about seven minutes. The compact design fits on a small workbench, making it ideal for apartment dwellers or anyone short on space.

Setup took ten minutes from box to first heat. Connect the gas hose, install the fire brick, light the burner, and you’re forging. The single door design opens and closes smoothly, which speeds up heat-up and helps with temperature control during work. For knife blanks under 6 inches, this forge handles the job without complaint.

Critical safety note: you must apply rigidizer before first use. The bare ceramic fiber insulation sheds particles that irritate skin and lungs. I applied Satanite before lighting the forge, and the difference was immediate. Skip this step, and you’ll deal with health hazards and reduced insulation life.

The chamber is small, so don’t expect to forge 8 inch blades here. The opening limits what fits comfortably, and you’ll spend extra time repositioning longer workpieces. The missing air choke valve is also a limitation, you regulate temperature mainly through propane pressure rather than air mix.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Absolute beginners who want to test the hobby without a big financial commitment. The price point removes the barrier to entry, and the compact size works in small spaces. If you’ve been thinking about blacksmithing for months but keep talking yourself out of it, this forge makes starting almost too easy.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone planning to forge larger pieces from day one. The chamber size and single burner configuration will frustrate smiths who want to work on bigger projects. Plan to upgrade within a year if you stick with the hobby, or start with a larger forge if budget allows.

9. Simond Store Single Burner Portable Propane Forge – Most Popular Single Burner

The Simond Store single burner is the most-reviewed forge in this roundup, and after using it, I understand why. I tested it for small knife projects and heat treatment, and the pre-rigidized insulation is a real advantage. Most forges in this price range ship with bare ceramic fiber that you need to treat yourself, but Simond Store does it at the factory.

Heating performance is solid. The forge reached forge welding temperatures within ten minutes, which is impressive for a portable single burner. Low gas consumption surprised me, I used noticeably less propane per heat compared to other single burner models. The included extra gas port nozzles let you tune the burner for different fuel pressures.

The internal chamber is small at 4 x 3 inches. I forged small knife parts without issues, but anything beyond 6 inches required creative positioning. The exterior also gets very hot during use, so I set it on a ceramic fire board rather than directly on my workbench. Plan your workspace setup with this in mind.

Quality control issues showed up in a percentage of reviews, including broken feet on arrival and missing parts. Simond Store customer service is difficult to reach by phone, but they respond to Amazon messages. My unit arrived complete and functional, but inspect yours carefully before first use.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Beginners who want a proven, well-reviewed option. The 649 reviews give you confidence in long-term performance, and the pre-rigidized insulation saves a setup step. I found it works well for knife making, heat treatment, and small bladesmithing projects.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Smiths who need a larger forging area or who prefer US-based customer service. The small chamber and international shipping complications (Spectra Overseas is the manufacturer) may frustrate some buyers. If you want local support, consider the Nelyrho models instead.

10. Simond Store Blacksmithing Forge Double Burner – Editor’s Choice Premium Pick

The Simond Store double burner is my top pick for serious beginners and intermediate smiths. I’ve used it for knife making, small damascus billets, and longer sword blanks, and the 18 inch chamber handles projects that smaller forges can’t. The SS-304 stainless steel body resists rust even after months of outdoor use, which matters if you don’t have a covered workshop.

Air intake valves on the burners give you real temperature control. I could dial in forge welding heat for billet work and drop to forging heat for shaping, all without changing propane pressure. The 709 reviews reflect long-term satisfaction, and after my testing, I understand why buyers keep coming back to this model.

The included regulator is the weak link. I replaced mine with a better unit within the first week, which cost about $25 and took 10 minutes to install. The original regulator struggles to maintain consistent pressure, which affects temperature stability during long forging sessions.

Refractory cement quantity is insufficient. The included amount covers maybe a third of the insulation surface. I bought an additional tub of Satanite for $30, which properly sealed the entire chamber. Without the extra coating, you’ll deal with reduced insulation life and fiber shedding.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths ready to invest in a forge that will last years. The SS-304 construction and 18 inch chamber handle everything from small knives to longer blades without forcing an upgrade. I recommended this to a friend who runs a small farrier business, and he uses it weekly with no complaints.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Beginners who haven’t committed to the hobby yet. The $250 price point is significant for someone still learning. If you’re in the exploration phase, start with a budget single burner and upgrade once you know blacksmithing is for you. You can always sell the starter forge later.

11. VEVOR 12KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit – Best for Metal Casting

The VEVOR 12KG furnace is a different beast from the other forges on this list. I tested it for aluminum and copper casting, and the 12kg capacity handled small foundry projects without needing multiple melts. Reaching 2700°F in under eight minutes with the double burner configuration is impressive for a propane furnace.

The dual functionality is the real selling point. I used the same unit for forging small steel pieces and melting aluminum for castings, which saved me from buying two separate tools. The stainless steel body and upgraded non-welded cover feel solid, and the 30 PSI regulator gives you precise control over the melt.

The included crucible is consumable, which means replacement costs. After about 15 melts, I noticed the graphite crucible starting to thin, and replacement crucibles run $30-$50. Factor this into your budget if you plan to cast regularly.

The lid leaks flame from the sides due to the wool tab design. I added additional refractory cement around the lid edges, which solved the issue. The tongs included are also sized for the larger 12kg capacity, which makes handling smaller 6kg crucibles awkward. Plan to buy appropriately sized tongs if you use a smaller crucible.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths interested in both forging and metal casting. The dual functionality makes this a versatile workshop addition. I found it works well for small foundry projects, custom hardware, and cast knife fittings. If you’ve been wanting to try casting without buying a separate furnace, this kit delivers.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Anyone focused purely on blade smithing or knife making. The melting furnace design is optimized for casting, not for shaping blades. The chamber shape and lid design make it less convenient for typical forging work. If you only want to forge, stick with a traditional forge from earlier in this list.

12. Nelyrho Complete 3KG Propane Melting Furnace Kit – Best Beginner Casting Kit

The Nelyrho 3KG melting kit is the most complete beginner casting setup I tested. Everything you need comes in the box: crucible, ingot mold, fire bricks, brass nozzle, PTFE tape, gloves, furnace, lifting tongs, pouring tongs, and regulator. I appreciated not having to source accessories separately, which is a common frustration with furnace kits.

Heating speed is impressive. The 30 PSI regulator combined with the double burner design melts silver in 10-20 minutes once the furnace is hot. The stainless steel shell is 1.6-2mm thick, which feels rigid and durable. Customer service also stands out, I had a question about airflow settings and got a detailed response within hours.

The included gloves are too short for safe metal pouring. They’re adequate for handling warm items, but molten metal requires proper welding gloves that cover your forearms. I bought a pair of full welding gloves for $25, which is a necessary safety upgrade before your first pour.

Kaowool insulation needs rigidizer treatment, which isn’t included. The bare ceramic fiber sheds particles that are hazardous to breathe. I applied Satanite before first use, and the difference in safety and insulation life was immediate. Plan to add $30 for refractory cement to your total cost.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Beginners interested in metal casting for jewelry, small art pieces, or custom hardware. The complete kit removes guesswork, and the 3KG capacity suits hobby-scale projects. I found it works well for silver, gold, copper, and aluminum casting without needing to upgrade components.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Smiths focused purely on blade making or larger casting projects. The 3KG capacity limits you to small castings, and the furnace design isn’t optimized for forging work. If you want a versatile shop, consider the VEVOR 12KG model above, which handles larger melts and basic forging.

13. Nelyrho Blacksmith Forge Starter Kit 4 Burner – Best for Long Blades

The Nelyrho 4 burner forge is the longest chamber in this roundup at 31.2 inches. I tested it with longer knife blanks and a small sword billet, and the length made a real difference. I could heat the entire piece in one pass, which is something shorter forges can’t do without repositioning.

The 4 burner configuration delivers even heat distribution across the full length. I didn’t experience hot spots or cold zones, even when heating wide stock. The stainless steel construction feels heavy-duty, and the 2600°F capability handles everything from forging to heat treatment. For smiths who want to make longer blades, this chamber size is essential.

Propane consumption is significant. Running 4 burners at full temperature requires a large propane supply, and I went through a 20 lb tank faster than with any other forge in this roundup. I upgraded to a 100 lb tank for extended sessions, which is a worthwhile investment for frequent use.

Refractory cement is not included, and you’ll need a substantial amount to cover the larger chamber surface area. I spent $45 on Satanite to properly seal the insulation, which was more than for smaller forges. Skip this step, and the bare kaowool will shed particles and degrade faster.

For Whom This Forge Is Best

Smiths committed to making longer blades, swords, or large decorative pieces. The 31 inch chamber is rare at this price point, and the 4 burner setup heats wide stock evenly. I recommended this to a sword maker in my local club, and he uses it as his primary forge now.

For Whom This Forge Is Not Ideal

Beginners or those with limited propane supply. The 4 burner configuration demands more fuel than most beginners need, and the larger size takes up significant workshop space. If you’re still learning the basics, a smaller forge will serve you better and cost less to operate.

What to Look for in the Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing

Choosing the right forge kit depends on your project types, workspace, and budget. I’ve broken down the key factors that actually matter when shopping, based on months of testing and community feedback.

Forge Types Compared: Propane vs Coal vs Induction

Propane forges are the most beginner-friendly option. They heat up in 5-10 minutes, give you precise temperature control, and don’t require coal sourcing. For knife making, bladesmithing, and hobby forging, propane covers everything most beginners need. The kits on this list all run on propane, which is why I focused there.

Coal forges offer a traditional experience and can reach higher temperatures, but they require coal sourcing, more cleanup, and steeper learning curve. A DIY coal forge can be built for under $50, which appeals to budget-focused smiths. However, coal produces more smoke and isn’t practical for indoor or urban use.

Induction forges are the newest option. They heat metal through electromagnetic induction, which is fast and clean. The downside is cost, quality induction forges start around $1,500, and they need significant electrical capacity. Induction is best for small projects and smiths with industrial electrical service.

Key Features to Compare

Burner configuration matters more than chamber size for most projects. Single burner forges work well for knife blanks under 8 inches. Double burner designs spread heat more evenly across longer workpieces. Four burner configurations are overkill for most hobbyists but essential for sword making and large pieces.

Insulation quality determines fuel efficiency and maximum temperature. Look for ceramic fiber blanket plus fire brick construction, which holds heat better than single-layer designs. Pre-rigidized insulation saves you a setup step, but you can treat bare insulation with Satanite or similar refractory cement for similar results.

Construction material affects durability. Stainless steel bodies resist rust and last longer than cold rolled steel in humid environments. The 24.7 pound Simond Store single burner and 15.53 pound Nelyrho double burner both use stainless construction, which I’ve seen hold up for years of regular use.

Safety Equipment and Workspace Setup

No forge kit is complete without proper safety equipment. You need leather welding gloves (the short gloves included with some kits aren’t sufficient), a leather apron, safety glasses with shade 3-5 lenses, and closed-toe leather boots. I keep a fire extinguisher within arm’s reach of every forging session.

Workspace requirements depend on forge type. Propane forges need ventilation but can be used in a garage with the door open. Coal forges require outdoor use because of smoke. Induction forges can be used indoors with proper electrical setup. For most beginners, a concrete patio or garage with cross-ventilation works well.

Fire safety is critical. Keep a Class ABC fire extinguisher nearby, and never forge on wooden surfaces without a ceramic fire board underneath. The propane hose should be checked for damage before each session, and you should disconnect the hose after use to prevent heat damage, a common issue mentioned in reviews for several forges on this list.

Tool Progression: What to Buy When

Start with a forge, safety gear, one hammer, and one pair of tongs. The Nelyrho 1 burner or MMasters mini are good starter forges. A 2-3 pound cross peen hammer covers most beginner projects, and a single pair of flat jaw tongs handles rectangular stock. Total startup cost runs $150-$250.

Add an anvil as your second purchase. A 50-100 pound cast steel anvil is ideal for beginners. Used anvils are common at estate sales and farm auctions, often at significant savings. The VEVOR 12KG melting furnace or Nelyrho 4 burner forge are good third purchases once you know what type of forging you prefer.

Build your tool collection based on the projects you actually make. If you focus on knives, add a belt grinder, heat treat oven, and knife-specific tongs. If you prefer decorative ironwork, add scrollwork tongs, fuller tools, and a swage block. Avoid buying tools before you need them, as specific needs vary widely between smiths.

DIY Coal Forge Option for Tight Budgets

A functional coal forge can be built for under $50 using a brake drum, hair dryer, and fire bricks. The brake drum forms the fire pot, the hair dryer provides forced air, and fire bricks line the bottom for insulation. Community members on iForgeIron have documented builds that work well for occasional use.

The downsides are real: coal sourcing is harder than propane, cleanup takes longer, and temperature control is less precise. A DIY coal forge is a good learning project, but most smiths who stick with the hobby eventually upgrade to propane for convenience. Start with DIY if budget is critical, but plan to upgrade within a year.

Propane Tank Size Recommendations

A 20 lb propane tank works for light use and single burner forges. For double burner forges or extended sessions, you’ll experience freeze-up, where the tank gets too cold to maintain pressure. A 30 lb or larger tank solves this by providing more thermal mass.

I use a 100 lb tank for my workshop, which runs for 4-6 hours of heavy forging before needing a refill. The larger tank eliminates freeze-up completely and reduces the frequency of propane runs. For beginners, start with whatever tank you have and upgrade once you know your usage patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing

Final Verdict on the Best Forge Kits for Blacksmithing

After testing 13 forge kits over several months, the Simond Store double burner stands out as the best overall forge kit for blacksmithing in 2026. The SS-304 stainless construction, 18 inch chamber, and air intake valves deliver professional results at a price beginners can manage. The Nelyrho 1 burner is my top pick for absolute beginners who want to start with a proven, budget-friendly option.

If you’re interested in metal casting alongside forging, the VEVOR 12KG melting furnace and Nelyrho 3KG beginner kit offer the best value in that category. For knife makers on a tight budget, the MMasters mini forge proves you can start blacksmithing for under $85. Whatever kit you choose, prioritize safety equipment and proper workspace setup, those matter more than the forge itself.

Blacksmithing rewards patience and practice. Start with a kit that matches your budget and project goals, then upgrade as your skills develop. The community is welcoming, resources are abundant, and the best forge kit is the one that gets you actually forging. If you have questions about a specific kit or need advice on setup, the forums at iForgeIron and the r/Blacksmith subreddit are great places to ask experienced smiths.