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It’s funny to think that one of the oldest tools in the workshop — the anvil — remains utterly indispensable. Whether you’re a weekend tinkerer shaping metal for garden art or a serious blacksmith forging knives, the anvil is the steady heart of the operation. In this guide I’ll walk you through the types of anvils, how much they typically cost in the UK, where to buy them from well-known retailers, and practical tips on care and safety. Think of this as your map to buying the right lump of metal for your projects.
A cheap anvil can ruin work faster than you can say “hammer.” A good anvil gives a solid rebound, resists chipping, and helps you shape metal cleanly. It’s like the board beneath a chef’s knife — you could chop on anything, but a stable chopping board makes the job easier and extends the life of your tools. Investing in a decent anvil pays off in better results and fewer frustrations.
These are the classic anvils with a horn and a flat face — ideal for heating and shaping hot metal. They’re versatile and often preferred by hobby and professional blacksmiths. Expect the face to be hardened steel and the body either forged or cast. If you enjoy shaping curves and sweeping bends, a London pattern is a workhorse for the job.
Smaller, more compact, and often without a horn, engineer’s anvils sit on a bench and suit light striking for sheet metal work or small fabrication projects. They’re great for precise shaping, riveting, and peening. If your workshop is short on space and your projects are detail-focused, an engineer’s anvil is a sensible pick.
Specifically made for shoeing horses, farrier anvils have shapes tailored to holding and finishing horseshoes. They often include smaller horns and lambs’ tongues to help bend the shoe. If you do any farriery work, these are the must-have options, built to handle repeated, focused blows.
For jewellery makers, model makers, and hobbyists, mini anvils weigh just a few pounds and fit on a workbench. They don’t replace a full-sized anvil’s rebound, but they are excellent for light shaping and finishing. Think of them as the pocketknife of anvils — small, handy, and surprisingly versatile for detailed tasks.
Weight matters. The heavier the anvil, the better the rebound and the less energy you lose in each blow. For a starter blacksmith working with small to medium projects, aim for an anvil around 55 to 110 lb. For more serious work or larger pieces, 165 to 330 lb is a comfortable range. Mini anvils can be as light as 5 to 25 lb, while professional shop anvils may top 440 lb or more. As a rule of thumb, if you’re frequently working with thick stock or want a lifetime tool, go heavier — an anvil is a long-term companion.
Screwfix stocks a variety of branded anvils and hardy tools suitable for hobbyists and light professional use. They tend to offer competitive prices and nationwide availability, which makes them a convenient first stop. Brands you’ll encounter include Sealey and other mainstream toolmakers. If convenience and local pick-up are important, Screwfix is a sensible option.
Toolstation is another high-street choice with accessible prices and branches across the UK. You’ll find engineer’s anvils and compact models suitable for garage workshops. Their product range often mirrors Screwfix, so it’s worth comparing prices and availability between them.
Axminster serves woodworkers and metalworkers and carries higher-end and specialist tools. They’re a good place to hunt for branded anvils and accessories, and you’ll often find more specialist mounting solutions and hardy tools. If you want a bit more choice and stronger customer support for workshop equipment, Axminster’s site is worth exploring.
Machine Mart and Cromwell are established suppliers of engineering tools and machinery. You’ll see heavy-duty engineer’s anvils, cast anvils, and accessories aimed at workshops and small factories. These retailers can be particularly useful if you need larger, more industrial-grade anvils or replacement hardy tools.
Both marketplaces host a huge variety — from bargain mini anvils to heavy cast models and rare, used finds. Amazon is handy for brand-new packaged items and fast delivery, while eBay is excellent if you’re hunting for vintage or refurbished anvils at a bargain. Just be wary of vague listings; check seller feedback and product photos closely.
Brands like Sealey, Draper, and Faithfull offer anvils through multiple retailers. You’ll typically find their products in national chains and specialist shops. These brands are consistent in quality for hobby and light professional use, so if you prefer brand reliability, look for their models at the stores above.
For dedicated blacksmithing or farriery gear, look to specialist suppliers that focus on forging, horseshoeing, and smithing tools. These outlets offer purpose-built anvils, hardy tools, and often advice based on craft needs. While not as ubiquitous as high-street chains, specialist suppliers are the go-to for serious smiths.
What you pay depends on size, brand, and whether the anvil is new, cast, or forged. Expect to pay roughly: mini anvils: 20 to 80 lb; light bench anvils: 40 to 120 lb; medium smith anvils: 120 to 330 lb; heavy and specialist anvils: 330 lb and up. Prices can range from £50 for a small hobby anvil to several hundred or even over a thousand pounds for larger or premium-forged models. If you’re buying used, you can often find good deals — but inspect for cracks and poor repairs first.
Buying new gives you a warranty and predictable quality. Used anvils often represent excellent value, especially older forged anvils with good steel faces. The downside? Used anvils can have hidden cracks, misshapen faces, or poor weld repairs that compromise performance. Treat used purchases like buying a secondhand car — look for solid condition and check the face for cracks and significant pitting.
Your anvil needs a secure, shock-absorbing mount. Many smiths use a hardwood stump or a welded steel stand. The ideal height is roughly at your knuckle height when standing with your arms relaxed — typically about 38 to 44 inches from the floor for most adults. Use heavy timber or a robust steel column and bolt the anvil securely to prevent shifting. A properly mounted anvil reduces strain and gives better control when hammering.
Anvils are low-maintenance, but a little care goes a long way. Keep the face clean and free of rust by wiping regularly with an oiled rag. For mild rust, use a wire brush; avoid aggressive grinding which can remove hardened surfaces. If the face gets pitted, a skilled smith can dress it, but avoid makeshift welding repairs unless done by a professional. Store the anvil somewhere dry — a damp garage is an anvil’s worst enemy.
Think beyond the anvil. A hardy tool set (fullers, cutters, swages), hardy mounting blocks, and quality hammers all influence results. Tongs, vises, and a good quench tub complete a functional forge setup. When shopping at the retailers mentioned earlier, compare accessory bundles — sometimes buying a small set together saves time and cash.
Wear eye protection and hearing protection; hammer blows echo loudly off metal. Keep your work area tidy, and use appropriate gloves for hot material handling. Make sure the anvil is stable and won’t slip under force. Don’t strike the side of the anvil aggressively — it can chip the face. Treat hot metal with respect: burns are immediate and unforgiving.
Ask yourself: What projects do I plan to do? How much space do I have? What is my budget? Is portability important? If you’re unsure, start with a medium-weight anvil in the 55 to 110 lb range; it’s a flexible compromise for many projects. Inspect used anvils for cracks, check seller reputations when buying online, and compare prices across Screwfix, Toolstation, Axminster, Amazon UK, and specialist retailers before committing.
Buying an anvil is a bit like choosing a partner for your craft: you want something steady, reliable, and built to last. Whether you pick up a compact bench anvil for home projects, a mid-weight blacksmith anvil for general forging, or a specialist farrier anvil, the right choice depends on your goals, space, and budget. Compare offerings from trusted UK retailers — national chains for convenience, marketplaces for variety, and specialist suppliers for craft-grade gear — and you’ll be forging ahead in no time.
| Anvils | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Anvil 10,9 Kg Cast Iron Blue | kr. 666,- |
