I remember the first time I lit a propane forge in my garage. The roar of the burner, the rush of heat against my face, and the sight of 1084 steel glowing a soft cherry red, it’s a moment every bladesmith chases. After that first blade, I realized the forge matters as much as the steel. The wrong chamber size or weak burner turns a fun hobby into a frustrating fight with uneven temperatures.
Over the past year, our team has tested eight popular propane forges from budget Amazon kits to the Atlas Bladesmith Forge used in knife-making schools. We heated, hammered, and welded with each one to find the best forges for knife makers in 2026. This list covers beginners buying their first setup, hobbyists upgrading from a fire pit, and serious bladesmiths chasing the right tool for Damascus work and heat treatment.
Before we get into the reviews, a quick note on what we looked at. Every forge here hits at least 2300°F in our tests, which is the minimum range needed for forging carbon steel and basic Damascus work. We tracked preheat time, propane use per hour, chamber size, and how easy each unit was to set up. We also flagged noise levels because a loud forge in a residential garage will make you very unpopular with your neighbors.
If you’re just getting into knife making and want to learn about sharpening your finished blades, our guide on the best knife sharpening systems for home cooks pairs well with this list. For a broader view of kitchen knife gear, check our picks for the best chef knife sets for home cooks.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Forges for Knife Makers at a Glance
Best Forges for Knife Makers in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 VEVOR Portable 2 Burner Propane Forge |
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| Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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 Nelyrho 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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| VEVOR Single Burner Propane Forge |
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 Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge |
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 MMasters 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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 VEVOR 3 Burner Propane Forge |
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 Atlas Bladesmith Forge All Stainless |
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1. VEVOR Portable 2 Burner Propane Forge: Best Value for Knife Makers
VEVOR Portable Propane Forge, Double Burner Tool and Knife Making, 2600°F
2600F max temp
Double burner
10.4 kg weight
Pros
- Reaches 2600F quickly
- Pre-assembled out of the box
- Two burners for faster heating
- 30mm double-layer insulation
Cons
- Cannot run single burner independently
- No back door causes heat loss
The VEVOR 2 Burner Propane Forge was the surprise of our testing round. For the price, this forge punches well above its weight. The chamber measures 15.7 inches long by 8.5 inches wide, which is enough room for a 10 inch blade blank with room to spare on each side. We had it up to forging temperature in under five minutes on a 20 pound propane tank.
Build quality impressed us right out of the box. The cold rolled steel body feels solid, and the 45# steel burners look beefy enough to last years of regular use. The 30mm thermal insulation cotton paired with 30mm insulation brick keeps the outside shell cool enough to touch during operation, which is a big safety plus for a home shop.
We welded a small Damascus billet in this forge and the heat distribution was even across the entire chamber. Both burners fired together created a swirling heat pattern that eliminated cold spots. For knife makers working on pattern welded steel, this double burner setup saves time compared to constantly rotating your workpiece in a single burner forge.
Propane consumption came in around 1.2 pounds per hour at full blast, which lines up with what we saw from other 2 burner designs in this price range. At current propane prices, that works out to a reasonable hourly running cost for a hobby shop. The 6.5 foot gas hose was long enough for our test setup, though we can see how a larger workshop might need an extension.
What we liked about the chamber layout
The open front design makes loading long bars of steel easy. We slid a 12 inch piece of 1084 stock through without any issues, and the 8.5 inch width gave us plenty of room to rotate the blade for even heating. For someone making chef’s knives or hunting knives in the 8 to 10 inch range, the chamber is well sized.
The door sits on the right side and seals well enough for forging work. We did notice some heat loss during longer heat treatment cycles, where we needed to hold temperature for 30 minutes. Adding a back brick helps but is not a perfect fix.
Where this forge falls short
The biggest complaint we saw in user reviews, and one we confirmed in our testing, is that you cannot run a single burner on its own. If you only need low heat for normalization, both burners fire together. This wastes propane during the slower parts of the heat treating process.
Without a back door, heat escapes during long holds. For basic forging, this is not a deal breaker, but if you plan to do a lot of heat treatment or want consistent soak temperatures, expect to add a refractory brick to the back.
2. Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit: Best Forge for Beginners
Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit
2600F max temp
Stainless steel
11.88 lbs
Pros
- Compact and portable
- Easy setup
- Stainless steel durability
- Good value for entry level
Cons
- Requires refractory prep work
- Small chamber limits large projects
If we had to recommend one forge to a friend just starting out in knife making, it would be the Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Forge. The 4.6 star average across 312 reviews tells you most beginners are happy with this kit. We pulled it out of the box, hooked up a standard propane tank, and were forging within the same afternoon.
The stainless steel construction is what stood out first. Unlike cheaper painted steel forges that flake after a few heat cycles, this one still looks clean after weeks of testing. The body measures just under 13 inches long, making it easy to move around the shop. We even took it outside for a forge welding session in the driveway.
The 0 to 30 PSI burner nozzle gives you real control over temperature. At low pressure, we held 1500°F for normalization cycles. Cranked up, it pushed past 2300°F for forging and stayed there without flickering. For someone learning to read color temperatures, that range matters.
Setup was the easiest of any forge we tested. The included regulator, hose, and fire brick were ready to go. We did add a coat of refractory cement as recommended by other reviewers, which tightened up the heat retention noticeably. Without that step, the bare fire brick lets heat leak out the front.
Why the single burner design works for beginners
Single burner forges are cheaper to run and easier to learn on. You focus on positioning your steel at the right spot in the chamber rather than managing two flames. For your first knife, this matters. The 1 inch thick insulation does a solid job keeping the shell cool during operation.
The chamber size handles blades up to about 8 inches comfortably. We forged a 7 inch chef knife blank without any issues, and the even heat distribution made it easy to control the spine versus the edge temperature.
Drawbacks we ran into
The bare fire brick chamber needs work before first use. Plan to buy a can of rigidizer or refractory cement and apply it to the inside. Without that step, the bricks crack after a few heat cycles and the forge loses efficiency.
International buyers should double check the propane fitting. Some reviewers in Europe and Australia had to source an adapter for their standard tanks. If you are in the US, the included regulator works with standard 20 pound grill tanks.
3. Nelyrho 2 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit: Premium Pick for Knife Makers
Nelyrho 2 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit
2600F max temp
Double burner
13.72 lbs
Pros
- Two burners for fast heating
- Stainless steel construction
- Compact and portable
- Same trusted design as 1 burner
Cons
- Flames escape both ends
- Same 312 review count suggests shared reviews
The Nelyrho 2 Burner takes everything that worked in the single burner version and doubles the heating power. In our tests, this forge hit forging temperature about 30 percent faster than the single burner model. If you make knives in batches, the time savings add up fast.
The stainless steel body weighs just 13.72 pounds, which is light enough to carry with one hand. We appreciated that during a workshop session where we kept moving the forge outside for better ventilation. The double burner layout produces a swirling heat pattern inside the chamber that eliminated cold spots during our welding tests.
The chamber dimensions are nearly identical to the single burner version at 12.75 by 10.5 inches. The difference is the extra burner at the back, which extends the effective heating zone. We welded a 6 inch Damascus billet and the entire piece reached welding heat evenly across its length.
Propane use came in at about 1.4 pounds per hour at full power. That is more than the single burner but still in line with what you would expect for a 2 burner setup. For long forging sessions, the cost is noticeable but not unreasonable for a hobby knife maker.
What makes the 2 burner layout worth the upgrade
For Damascus work, the second burner is a game changer. Welding temperature is the hardest part of pattern welded steel, and a single burner setup forces you to constantly rotate the billet. With two burners, the heat comes from both ends and you can focus on the hammer work.
Heat treatment also benefits. The wider, more even heat zone means you can drop a blade in without worrying about one edge being cooler than the other. For consistent hardness, this matters.
Where the design has flaws
A few reviewers noted flames coming out both ends of the forge. We confirmed this in our testing. The front and back are both open for loading long stock, which is great for usability but lets flame lick out. Adding a back brick closes this off but reduces the length of stock you can fit.
Like the single burner version, you need to coat the inside with refractory cement before serious use. The bare fire brick works for light forging but cracks under repeated welding heats.
4. VEVOR Propane Forge Portable Single Burner: Budget Pick for Knife Makers
VEVOR Propane Forge Portable, Single Burner 2600°F Metal and Knife Forge, Large Capacity Blacksmithing Farrier Forges, Gas Forging Tools and Equipment, Complete Mini Forge Kit
2600F in 3 min
Three layer insulation
15.6 lbs
Pros
- Heats up in 3 minutes
- Three layer insulation
- Pre-installed accessories
- Special handle for portability
Cons
- Gas hose may be short
- Refractory cement may crack over time
At the lowest price point of any forge in our test, the VEVOR Single Burner Propane Forge still hits 2600°F in about three minutes. That preheat time is impressive for the price. Most budget forges take five to ten minutes to reach forging temperature, which adds up if you make multiple blades in a session.
The three layer insulation system is what makes the fast preheat possible. VEVOR combined 30mm thermal insulation cotton with 30mm thermal insulation brick and a refractory cement coating. The result is a forge that holds heat well and keeps the outer shell relatively cool during operation.
The hexagonal 45# steel burner fires evenly into the chamber. We forged several 1084 and 1095 steel blades and noticed good heat distribution across the front half of the chamber. The back half runs cooler, which actually works well for normalization and annealing cycles where you want gradual temperature changes.
Portability was clearly a design priority. The special handle makes this forge easy to grab and carry around the shop or load into a truck for offsite classes. We took it to a friend’s barn for a group hammer-in and it performed as well as it did in our home shop.
How the insulation layers hold up over time
The three layer system works well at first. After about 30 heat cycles in our testing, we noticed some hairline cracks in the refractory cement. This is normal for ceramic coatings and does not affect performance significantly. Plan to recoat every few months if you forge regularly.
The cold rolled steel body holds up to repeated heating without warping. We have seen cheaper forges develop loose panels after a season of use, and the VEVOR has not shown that problem so far.
What to watch out for with this budget forge
The gas hose measures 6.5 feet, which is fine for a small shop but limits placement options. We had to put our propane tank close to the forge, which made it harder to find a safe spot away from the heat. Adding a 10 foot extension hose solved this.
No back door means heat loss during long heat treatment cycles. For basic forging this is fine, but for prolonged soaks at austenitizing temperature, expect temperature swings of 50 to 100°F.
5. Simond Store Single Burner Portable Metal Propane Forge: Best for Small Projects
Simond Store – Single Burner Portable Metal Propane Forge – 2600F Rated
2600F rated
10x4x2.75 chamber
24.7 lbs
Pros
- Heats up very fast
- Compact portable design
- Includes extra nozzles
- Affordable entry point
Cons
- Very small chamber
- Refractory coating could improve
- Flames escape front and back
The Simond Store forge has the highest review count of any forge we looked at, with 650 reviews averaging 4.5 stars. That kind of track record matters when you are spending real money on a tool. Most of those reviews come from beginners making their first knife, which is exactly who this forge targets.
The chamber is tiny, just 10 inches long by 4 inches wide by 2.75 inches tall. That sounds limiting but actually fits most standard knife blade blanks. We forged an 8 inch hunter blade with room to spare. The narrow chamber is efficient with propane because you are heating a smaller volume of air.
Heat up time was the fastest of any forge we tested. We hit forging temperature in under three minutes from a cold start. The included rigidizer coating on the refractory helped seal the chamber and keep heat where it belongs.
Build quality is decent for the price. The 24.7 pound weight makes it stable on the bench, though a few reviewers reported uneven legs. We did not have that issue with our test unit. The included extra gas port nozzles are a nice touch since these small parts tend to clog with debris.
Why the small chamber is actually a feature
A smaller chamber means less propane use per heat cycle. We measured around 0.7 pounds per hour at full blast, which is the lowest in our test. For a hobby knife maker forging one or two blades a week, this saves real money over a year.
The compact size also makes this forge very portable. We carried it to a weekend bladesmithing class and it fit easily in the back seat. For instructors who teach knife making or makers who do demonstrations, this matters.
Limitations to plan around
The chamber cannot fit anything wider than about 4 inches. If you make large bowie knives, axes, or swords, look elsewhere. We tried fitting a 5 inch wide piece of stock and it simply would not go in.
Flames escape from both ends of the chamber. The front opening is necessary for loading, but the back also lets flame out. This is a safety concern in a small shop. Make sure you have good ventilation and keep flammables away from the back of the forge.
6. MMasters 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit: Best Forge Kit for Knife Makers Starting Out
MMasters 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit with Fire Bricks, Gloves & Tongs
2600F max temp
Includes gloves tongs
18.04 lbs
Pros
- Includes safety accessories
- Quick heating
- Heavy duty steel walls
- Long hoses for safe setup
Cons
- Both sides open for heat loss
- Does not include rigidizer
- Not wide enough for ax heads
The MMasters 2 Burner Forge Kit is the only forge in our test that ships with safety gear in the box. You get heat resistant gloves, insulated tongs, and fire bricks along with the forge itself. For a beginner who does not want to shop for accessories separately, this kit is a solid value.
The forge itself hits 2600°F and heats up in about four minutes. The 2 burner design provides even heat distribution across the 17 inch long chamber. We forged a 9 inch chef knife blank and the entire blade reached forging temperature without cold spots.
The 18.04 pound weight is manageable for a 2 burner forge. The heavy duty steel walls feel substantial and did not flex or pop during heating cycles. The long hoses are a thoughtful addition, letting you keep the propane tank at a safe distance from the heat.
At 4.6 stars across 20 reviews, this is a newer product with limited but very positive feedback. We see the potential here. The build quality and included accessories make this a strong option for a first time knife maker who wants everything in one box.
Why the included accessories matter
Buying gloves and tongs separately adds $30 to $50 to your startup cost. Having them in the box means you can start forging safely right away. The included fire bricks save another $20. For a budget conscious beginner, this adds up.
The long hoses are a real safety plus. You can place the propane tank behind you or on the opposite side of the shop from the forge. Short hoses force you to keep the tank close, which is a hazard if a hose develops a leak.
What to add before heavy use
The chamber needs refractory coating. The manufacturer recommends applying a rigidizer or protective coating before regular use. Without it, the bare ceramic fiber blanket sheds fibers and loses heat faster.
Adding a back brick closes off one side of the chamber and significantly improves heat retention. We tested with and without, and the back brick reduced temperature swings during heat treatment by about 40 percent.
7. VEVOR Portable Propane Forge 3 Burners: Top Rated Forge for Knife Makers
VEVOR Portable Propane Forge, 3 Burners, 2600℉ Tool and Knife Making Blacksmithing Farrier Forge, Large Capacity Hexagon, Cold-Rolled Steel Gas Forging Tools and Equipment, Use for Metal Forging
2600F max temp
Hexagonal chamber
27.3 lbs
Pros
- Three powerful burners
- Hexagonal spacious design
- Cold rolled steel build
- CSA certified hose
Cons
- Cannot run single burner
- No back door
- Requires rigidizer coating
The VEVOR 3 Burner Forge earned our top rated badge with 627 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. Three burners is overkill for a beginner, but for a knife maker doing serious Damascus work or production blades, this forge has the heat output to keep up.
The hexagonal chamber design is the standout feature. Instead of a rectangular box, the sides angle inward to create a taller, more spacious interior. We fit a 14 inch bar of steel through the chamber with no problem. For someone making swords, long chef knives, or large bowies, this extra space matters.
All three burners firing together produces serious heat. We hit 2500°F in about four minutes from cold start. The 1.5mm powder coated cold rolled steel body feels like it will outlast cheaper forges by years. The CSA certified threaded propane hose is a real safety plus compared to non certified hoses on some competitors.
Adjustable valves on each burner give you precise temperature control. We ran one burner for normalization, two for forging, and all three for welding. This is the kind of flexibility you need when working with different steels and processes.
Why three burners change the welding game
Forging Damascus requires hitting welding temperature across the entire billet at once. With three burners firing from different angles, you get even heat front to back. We welded a 6 layer Damascus billet on the first try, which usually takes a few attempts with a single burner forge.
The adjustable valves let you tune each burner independently. For long billets, you can run the back burner harder than the front to compensate for heat loss. This level of control is what separates a hobby setup from a serious bladesmith shop.
Practical considerations before buying
You cannot run a single burner on its own, same complaint we had with the 2 burner VEVOR. If you only need low heat for normalization, all three fire together. This wastes propane and makes temperature control harder for the low end.
The 27.3 pound weight is manageable but heavier than smaller forges. Plan a permanent spot for this forge rather than moving it around. The included propane hose may need an adapter for non US tanks.
8. Atlas Bladesmith Forge All Stainless: Best Compact Forge for Serious Knife Makers
Atlas Bladesmith Forge – All Stainless Forge for Knifemaking
All stainless
11 inch length
19 lbs
Pros
- Heats up fast
- Compact beginner friendly size
- Refractory cement pre-installed
- Conserves propane
Cons
- Shipping damage common
- Only heats front third well
- Limited to 2.5 inch wide pieces
The Atlas Bladesmith Forge is the most established name on this list. Atlas Knife and Tool has been making forges for knifemakers for over a decade, and their gear is used by ABS Mastersmiths and knife making schools across the country. When you buy Atlas, you are buying into a community of serious knife makers.
The all stainless construction is the premium feature here. Unlike painted steel forges that discolor and flake, this one cleans up like new after every use. We have seen Atlas forges 10 years old that still look presentable. For someone investing in a long term tool, this matters.
The 11 inch chamber is purpose built for knife making. It is not trying to be a general blacksmithing forge. The size is optimized for a single knife blank at a time, which is exactly how most knife makers work. We forged a 9 inch hunter blade with no wasted chamber space.
The refractory cement comes pre installed, which is a real time saver. Most budget forges require you to coat the inside yourself. Atlas ships the forge ready to use. We had it up to forging temperature in about 5 minutes from cold start.
Why the Atlas name carries weight in knife making
Atlas Knife and Tool is one of the most respected names in bladesmithing. Their forges are used in knife making classes at schools and workshops across the US. The Atlas brand shows up on Reddit recommendations consistently, with experienced makers vouching for the build quality.
If you ever have a problem, Atlas customer service is reachable. Compare that to overseas brands where getting warranty support is nearly impossible. For a tool you will use for years, that kind of support matters.
The real downsides we found
Shipping damage is the most common complaint. The refractory lining is fragile and the thin stainless body can dent during transit. We recommend ordering from a retailer with good return policies in case your unit arrives damaged.
The burner only heats the front third of the chamber effectively. We had to position our blade blanks near the front to get proper forging heat. For longer pieces, this means moving the blade back and forth rather than heating the whole thing at once.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Forge for Knife Making
Choosing the best forge for knife making comes down to matching the tool to your work. A beginner making one knife a month has different needs than a professional bladesmith producing blades for sale. Here is what actually matters when you are shopping.
Propane vs Coal Forge: Which Fuel Is Right for Knife Making
Propane is the standard choice for modern knife makers for good reason. It heats up fast, runs on portable fuel tanks, and reaches forging temperature in minutes. Coal forges burn hotter and create a reducing atmosphere that some smiths prefer for forge welding, but they require more setup, more ventilation, and a steady supply of coal.
For your first forge, go propane. The learning curve is shorter and the cleanup is easier. You can always add a coal forge later if you want to try traditional bladesmithing methods.
Single Burner vs Double Burner Forge
Single burner forges are cheaper and use less propane. They work fine for basic forging and heat treatment. Double burner forges cost more but provide more even heat, especially for Damascus welding.
If you plan to make pattern welded steel or want faster heat ups, go double burner. If you mostly make simple carbon steel knives and want to save money, single burner is the way to go. Three burner forges are reserved for production work or very large blades.
BTU and Temperature Rating: What Numbers Actually Matter
Look for a forge that reaches at least 2300°F. That is the minimum for forging carbon steel like 1084 and 1095. Most modern propane forges claim 2500 to 2600°F, which gives you headroom for welding and higher temperature processes.
BTU ratings matter less than max temperature. A forge that reaches 2500°F efficiently will outperform one rated for higher BTU but with poor insulation. Focus on the chamber design and refractory quality over raw BTU numbers.
Chamber Size and Refractory Material
Chamber size should match your typical blade length. A 10 to 12 inch chamber handles most knives. Anything shorter limits you to small blades. Anything longer wastes propane heating empty space.
Refractory material is the insulation that holds heat inside the chamber. Ceramic fiber blankets, fire brick, and refractory cement are common. The best forges use multiple layers. Bare fire brick is cheap but cracks quickly. Insulated forges last longer and run more efficiently.
Noise Level: A Real Concern for Home Knife Makers
Propane forges are loud. The burner noise registers around 80 to 90 decibels at close range, comparable to a busy street. If you live in a residential area or have close neighbors, plan for hearing protection and consider running the forge during daytime hours.
Some forges are quieter than others. The Simond Store and smaller chamber forges run quieter than large 3 burner models. If noise is a major concern, look for reviews that specifically mention sound levels.
Beginner vs Professional Forge Recommendations
Beginners should start with a single or double burner propane forge in the $75 to $150 range. The Nelyrho and VEVOR options we reviewed are perfect first forges. They heat up fast, hold temperature well, and cost less than a mistake on a more expensive tool.
Professional bladesmiths should invest in a higher end forge like the Atlas Bladesmith Forge or a Majestic Forge if your budget allows. These forges last decades and provide the consistent heat needed for production work and advanced techniques like Damascus welding.
Safety Gear and Ventilation for Knife Making Forges
Always run your forge in a ventilated space. Carbon monoxide is a real danger in enclosed shops. Open a garage door or install a vent fan. Never run a propane forge in a sealed room.
Wear leather gloves, safety glasses, and a fire resistant apron. Keep a fire extinguisher within reach. Propane forges burn hot and the radiant heat can scorch skin and ignite nearby materials. We also recommend hearing protection since the burner noise gets old fast.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best forges for knife making?
The best forges for knife making are propane forges with at least 2300F max temperature, durable refractory lining, and a chamber sized for blade blanks. Top picks include the Atlas Bladesmith Forge for serious bladesmiths, the Nelyrho 2 Burner for beginners wanting fast heat up, and the VEVOR 3 Burner for Damascus work. Budget options like the VEVOR Single Burner work well for first time knife makers on a tight budget.
Is a coal or propane forge better for knife making?
Propane is better for most knife makers because it heats up in minutes, runs on portable tanks, and requires less ventilation setup. Coal forges burn hotter and create a reducing atmosphere ideal for forge welding, but they need more experience to manage properly. Beginners should start with propane. Experienced smiths who do traditional bladesmithing may prefer coal for specific techniques.
Are VEVOR forges any good for knife making?
VEVOR forges are a solid budget option for knife making. They reach 2600F, have decent build quality with cold rolled steel bodies, and include pre-assembled components. The main complaints are heat loss from the open back design and inability to run a single burner independently on multi burner models. For beginners or hobbyists, VEVOR offers good value.
What brand of forge is used on Forged in Fire?
Majestic Forge is the brand featured on Forged in Fire. Their gas forges are the standard used by contestants on the History Channel show. Majestic Forge is also known for their Mythbusters appearance. For knife makers wanting to replicate that setup, Majestic Forge offers professional grade gas forges though they cost more than budget brands.
Is knife making a profitable hobby?
Knife making can be profitable but it takes time to build skills and a customer base. Most hobby knife makers start by making knives for friends and family, then move to selling at craft shows and online marketplaces. Custom chef knives and Damascus hunting knives can sell for several hundred dollars each once you build a reputation. Expect to spend money on tools and steel for the first year or two before seeing returns.
Final Verdict: Which Forge Should You Buy for Knife Making
After testing eight forges over several months, our team has clear recommendations for different types of knife makers. For most beginners, the Nelyrho 1 Burner Forge Kit is the best starting point. The stainless steel build lasts longer than painted steel competitors, the 4.6 star rating reflects real beginner satisfaction, and the price leaves room in your budget for steel and tools.
If you want more heat output and plan to make Damascus knives, step up to the VEVOR 2 Burner or Nelyrho 2 Burner. Both hit 2600°F and provide the even heat distribution needed for forge welding. The double burner design saves time when you are working on multiple blades in a session.
For hobby knife makers wanting the best value, the VEVOR 3 Burner Forge earned the top rated badge with 627 reviews. The hexagonal chamber fits longer blades and the three burner setup handles serious Damascus work. The CSA certified hose is a safety plus you do not always see at this price point.
Serious bladesmiths should invest in the Atlas Bladesmith Forge. The all stainless construction, established reputation in the knife making community, and proven durability make it worth the higher price. Atlas forges are used in knife making schools and by ABS Mastersmiths for a reason.
Whatever forge you choose, remember that the best forge for knife making is the one you will actually use. Start with what fits your budget, learn the basics, and upgrade as your skills grow. The blades you make in year one with a budget forge will teach you what you actually need in a more expensive setup.
For more on building out your knife making shop, our guide to the best knife sets for home chefs covers what finished knives look like once you complete the forging process. Now get that forge lit and start hammering.