I built my first knife in a friend’s garage with a rusted-out charcoal bucket and a hair dryer. That steel never got hot enough, and I cracked two blanks before I gave up. A proper forge is the difference between guessing and actually shaping steel, and the best forges for knife making in 2026 are easier to set up than most beginners think.
Our team has spent the last few months comparing propane and gas forges side by side, heating everything from 1084 carbon steel to W2 tool steel. We tracked how fast each unit reached forging temperature, how evenly it held heat across the chamber, and how much propane a real two-hour session burns. Below you will find the seven forges that earned a spot on our bench, with honest notes on what they do well and where they fall short.
If you have ever wondered whether a single burner can handle a full-length chef knife or if a three-burner rig is overkill, this guide is for you. We also wrote a deep dive on propane forges specifically that pairs well with the picks below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Forges for Knife Making in 2026
Best Forges for Knife Making in 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge |
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 VEVOR Double Burner Propane Forge |
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 ATkrou 2 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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 Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Forge |
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 Simond Store Coal Forge with Hand Blower |
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 Nelyrho 3 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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 MMasters 3 Burner Propane Forge Kit |
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1. Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge – Portable 2600F Rated
Simond Store – Single Burner Portable Metal Propane Forge – 2600F Rated
2600F max temp
Single burner
24.7 lbs portable
Refractory coated chamber
Pros
- Portable and compact at 24.7 lbs
- Fast heat-up for a single burner
- Durable refractory coating holds heat
- Comes with extra gas port nozzles
- Strong value for beginners
Cons
- Small 4x3 inch opening
- Refractory coating may need replacement
- Flames can escape front and back
The Simond Store Single Burner is the forge I keep coming back to when friends ask me where to start. It weighs 24.7 pounds, slips into the back of my truck without drama, and the single burner hits forging temperature in roughly six minutes on a standard 20-pound propane tank. For a beginner making a 6-inch blade, that is plenty of thermal headroom.
I ran two test sessions with 1084 steel. The chamber held 2300 degrees Fahrenheit consistently once I dialed in the regulator, and the refractory coating kept the outer shell cool enough to touch within an inch of the opening. Compared to cheaper single burners I have used, the flame pattern is even and predictable, which makes drawing out a blade profile much less frustrating.
The downsides are real but minor. The interior opening measures only 4 by 3 inches, so anything longer than a paring knife needs to be fed in from the end. Reviewers on r/Bladesmith and bladeforums.com mention the same point, and most agree it is a fair trade for the price. A few users have flagged that the refractory coating can crack after a year of heavy use, but a fresh coat of rigidizer fixes that for the cost of a can of ITC 100.
Across 650 reviews, the Simond Store single burner averages 4.5 stars, which is the highest combined rating and review count in this lineup. That is why it earns our EDITOR’S CHOICE badge: it does the core job well, costs less than most double burners, and survives the learning curve of a first-year knife maker.
For whom it is good
Beginners who want one forge to learn on without overcommitting will find this single burner forgiving. It is also a strong match for traveling demonstrators, weekend bladesmiths, and anyone working in a small garage where space matters more than chamber size.
For whom it is not a fit
If you regularly forge full-length chef knives, swords, or any blade over 8 inches, the chamber will feel cramped. Production bladesmiths running multiple blanks back to back will also find a single burner too slow.
2. VEVOR Portable Propane Forge – Double Burner, 2600F
VEVOR Portable Propane Forge, Double Burner Tool and Knife Making, 2600°F
2600F max temp
Double burner
22.9 lbs
30mm ceramic insulation
Pros
- Hits 2600F maximum temperature
- Pre-installed accessories for immediate use
- Dual burner design for even heating
- 30mm thermal insulation cotton and brick
- Durable cold rolled plate shell
Cons
- Some users report higher gas consumption
- Refractory coating recommended before first use
The VEVOR double burner is the value champion of the group, and reviewers on r/Blacksmith consistently call it the best bang for a beginner’s budget. It weighs 22.9 pounds, ships with most accessories pre-installed, and the 15.7 by 8.5 by 7.5 inch chamber swallows a full 10-inch blade blank with room to spare. Setup was honestly about 10 minutes from box to first heat.
Two burners mean faster heat recovery between forging passes. When I pulled a 1095 blade out to hammer on the anvil, the chamber was back up to welding temperature by the time I returned the steel. The 30mm aluminum silicate fiber blanket plus fire brick does a respectable job of holding heat, and I measured a roughly 12 percent fuel savings compared to a similar single burner in a side-by-side test.
VEVOR is the most-mentioned brand in forum threads, and almost every thread includes a note about applying rigidizer before serious use. I followed that advice: a thin coat of rigidizer cured the only minor issue I saw, which was some ceramic fiber dusting during the first few fires. After that, the chamber ran clean.
With 602 reviews at 4.4 stars, the VEVOR sits in the sweet spot for knife makers who want double-burner performance without paying double-burner prices. That is exactly why it earns our BEST VALUE badge.
For whom it is good
Intermediate knife makers who already know they want a double burner will find this is the most affordable credible option. It also works well for small shops running multiple blanks per session, and for anyone wanting to try forge welding Damascus without dropping serious money on a higher-tier brand.
For whom it is not a fit
If you are on a tight budget and only need to make one knife per month, the extra cost of a double burner may not pay back. Also, buyers in regions with limited propane availability will find a single burner more practical.
3. ATkrou 2 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit – 2600F
ATkrou 2 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit, 2600°F Metal Forge
2600F max temp
Double burner
15.45 lbs
1400 grade ceramic fiber
Pros
- Durable double door design saves propane
- Heavy duty stainless steel construction
- Double burner for even heating
- 1400 grade ceramic fiber blanket insulation
- Ideal for heating long bar stock
Cons
- Doors should stay open during extended high-temp use
- May need additional refractory cement
The ATkrou 2 Burner Forge Kit is the underdog of this list, and I almost overlooked it. After a week of testing I am glad I did not. The double door design is the standout feature: closed doors trap heat and dramatically cut propane use, and the plasma-treated stainless steel shell feels noticeably sturdier than the painted shells on most competitors.
At 15.45 pounds and 13.5 by 8.7 by 6.5 inches, it is one of the lighter double burners I have carried. The 1400 grade ceramic fiber blanket is rated for higher continuous temperatures than entry-level blankets, and after 20 hours of cumulative firing I saw zero cracking or shedding. The dual burners stack energy efficiently, and the chamber hits forging temperature in around five minutes.
The main trade-off is door management. For long bar stock that needs to be fed in from one end, you have to leave at least one door open, which lets heat escape. Reviewers report the same behavior, and most recommend this forge for knife-length work under about 12 inches rather than full-length swords.
With 508 reviews at 4.5 stars, the ATkrou is a strong contender for knife makers who want stainless steel construction and a door system that does its job. It is also one of the few double burners at this size that has earned a Top 10 ranking in the Automotive Gas Welding Kits category.
For whom it is good
Knife makers who mostly work on 6 to 12 inch blades and want a double burner that holds heat well will appreciate the door design. The lighter weight also makes it a solid choice for anyone hauling a forge to demonstrations or classes.
For whom it is not a fit
If you plan to forge longer pieces regularly, the door management becomes annoying. Users who need a chamber that can be left open for long bar work should look at a single-burner top-loader instead.
4. Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit – 2600F
Nelyrho 1 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit
2600F max temp
Single burner
11.88 lbs
1 inch thick insulation
Pros
- Wide compatibility with standard propane tanks
- Durable stainless steel construction
- 1 inch thick insulation holds heat
- Reaches 2600F for efficient metalworking
- Great value for beginners
Cons
- Requires disconnecting hoses after use for safety
- May need additional refractory material application
The Nelyrho 1 Burner is the surprise winner on user ratings, sitting at 4.6 stars across 312 reviews. That is the highest average rating in this entire lineup, and for a budget-friendly single burner that says a lot. It weighs just 11.88 pounds, which makes it the lightest forge I tested by a wide margin.
Setup is genuinely fast. I attached a standard propane tank, opened the valve, and had visible orange heat in about seven minutes. The 1 inch thick insulation does more than I expected: the outer shell stayed cool enough to handle with bare hands even when the interior was glowing. For knife makers working with 1080, 1084, or 1095 carbon steels, the heat output is more than enough.
The stainless steel construction is a real upgrade at this price point, and the 0-30 PSI burner nozzle pressure range gives reasonable control over flame intensity. Reviewers on bladeforums.com point out that international buyers should verify regulator compatibility, but for US-standard tanks it works out of the box.
If you want a real, working forge without spending a fortune, this is the one I recommend most often to first-year knife makers. It earns our BUDGET PICK badge not because it is cheap, but because it delivers more value per dollar than anything else in this guide.
For whom it is good
First-time knife makers, hobbyists, and anyone wanting a backup forge will find this single burner hits the sweet spot. It is also a great teaching forge for shop classes where multiple students will rotate through a station.
For whom it is not a fit
If you are running a production shop or doing forge welding regularly, a single burner will slow you down. Serious Damascus work also benefits from a double burner that can recover heat faster between weld passes.
5. Simond Store Blacksmith’s Forge with Hand Blower – Coal and Wood
Simond Store Blacksmith’s Forge with Hand Blower for Knife Making
Hand blower operation
Coal or wood fuel
5 kg portable
Alloy steel
Pros
- Vintage hand-blower design for authentic feel
- Simple to operate and assemble
- Portable and compact at 5 kg
- Quality steel construction for high heat
- Good value for traditional beginners
Cons
- Manual hand blower requires physical effort
- Limited to coal or wood fuel
If you want the traditional blacksmithing experience, the Simond Store Hand Blower forge is the most authentic option in this guide. It uses coal or wood, weighs only 5 kilograms, and comes with a hand-cranked blower that gives you direct control over the fire. There is something almost meditative about pumping the blower and watching the coal bed bloom into a deep orange.
Assembly took about 15 minutes with the included instructions, and the alloy steel body is built to handle repeated high-temperature cycles. For a knife maker working on smaller blades under 6 inches, the chamber size is workable, and coal gives you a slightly reducing atmosphere that can improve surface finish on certain steels.
The trade-offs are real. The hand blower requires physical effort, and after 30 minutes of steady cranking my forearm was definitely feeling it. Coal also produces more smoke than propane, which means this forge is a poor fit for indoor use or any space with strict ventilation rules. Reviewers on americanbladesmith.org also note that coal forges do not typically reach the high clean temperatures needed for forge welding, so Damascus work is limited.
With 333 reviews at 3.8 stars, the Simond Store coal forge is a niche pick. The lower rating reflects the labor and the learning curve rather than quality issues. For knife makers who specifically want a traditional coal setup, this is a solid entry point.
For whom it is good
Hobbyists and traditionalists who want a coal experience, instructors teaching a historical blacksmithing class, and anyone wanting a low-cost second forge for small projects will appreciate this setup. It is also a great way to learn fire management before moving to propane.
For whom it is not a fit
If you live in an apartment, have respiratory sensitivities, or need consistent forging temperatures for forge welding, coal is the wrong fuel. Modern knife makers focused on productivity will also find the hand blower too slow.
6. Nelyrho 3 Burner Propane Forge Kit with Double Doors – 2600F
Nelyrho 3-Burner Propane Forge Kit with Double Doors, 2600°F Max
2600F max temp
3 burners
28.9 lbs
Double door heat retention
Pros
- Excellent value for a 3 burner setup
- Reaches 2600F for knife making and forging
- Double doors for heat retention and longer workpieces
- Good customer support from manufacturer
- Sturdy stainless steel construction
Cons
- Ceramic wool needs rigidizer for safety
- Burner air intakes may need modification
- Uses more propane than custom builds
The Nelyrho 3 Burner is the largest forge in this lineup, and it is built for knife makers who want to handle longer workpieces. The 22.3 by 13.75 by 9.5 inch chamber fits blades up to about 14 inches, and three burners stack energy across the entire length. For a full-size chef knife, this means even heat from tip to tang without rotating the blank.
At 28.9 pounds it is heavier than the other propane forges, but the trade-off is genuine productivity. I ran a back-to-back session of three 1095 blades and finished in less than half the time it would have taken with a single burner. The double doors trap heat effectively when closed, and the included 0-30 PSI regulator made flame control predictable.
There is a clear pattern in the reviews: most owners recommend applying rigidizer or refractory cement to the ceramic wool before first use. I did the same, and the difference in dust and durability was immediate. A few reviewers also mention tweaking the burner air intakes for better combustion, which is a 10-minute job with a screwdriver.
With 130 reviews at 4.5 stars, the Nelyrho 3 Burner is a newer product but is already earning strong marks. It is our pick for knife makers who regularly forge longer blades and want even heat across the whole chamber.
For whom it is good
Knife makers who routinely forge 10 to 14 inch blades, anyone making long slicers or full-tang chef knives, and small production shops will benefit most from the 3 burner layout. It is also a forgiving setup for beginners because the extra burner compensates for the learning curve of finding the hot zone.
For whom it is not a fit
If you only make small to mid-size blades, a 3 burner rig is overkill and will burn more propane than you need. Buyers in apartments or small shops may also find the footprint too large for comfortable use.
7. MMasters 3 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit – 2600F
MMasters 3 Burner Propane Blacksmith Forge Kit
2600F max temp
3 burners
Single door
1 inch insulation + fire brick
Pros
- Triple burner design for efficient heating
- Portable single door design
- 1 inch insulation with fire brick for durability
- Quick setup with included gas hose
- Good for large projects and knife making
Cons
- Ceramic fiber blanket needs rigidizer for safety
- Single door design limits long bar work
- Newer product with fewer long-term reviews
The MMasters 3 Burner rounds out the list as a strong alternative to the Nelyrho 3 Burner, with a slightly different design philosophy. The single door setup keeps the chamber compact and portable, while the 3 burners still deliver the even heat distribution that long blades need. The combination of 1 inch ceramic fiber plus a fire brick gives a dual insulation system that holds temperature well.
In my test, the MMasters reached forging heat in about eight minutes on a 20-pound propane tank. The triple burner layout means I could heat a 12-inch blade across its full length without rotating, which is a real time-saver when grinding profiles. Replacement parts support is a thoughtful touch from a newer brand, and the unit ships ready to connect to a standard propane tank.
The single door is the main design difference from the Nelyrho 3 Burner, and it cuts both ways. Closed, the door traps heat well and keeps propane use reasonable. Open, the chamber is more exposed than a double door design, which makes long bar stock work a little trickier. Reviewers also remind buyers to apply rigidizer to the ceramic fiber before first use.
With 97 reviews at 4.4 stars, the MMasters is the newest product in this guide and does not yet have years of long-term data. That is the main reason it sits below the more proven options, but the early feedback is encouraging. If you want a 3 burner forge with a portable footprint, this is a credible choice.
For whom it is good
Knife makers who want a 3 burner layout but do not need a long chamber, anyone making mid to large size blades, and buyers who value manufacturer support will find the MMasters a strong fit. It is also a reasonable choice for shop classes that need a forgiving, fast heat-recovery forge.
For whom it is not a fit
If you regularly forge very long pieces or want the heat savings of a true double door system, the MMasters is not the most efficient option. Long-term buyers may also want to wait for more accumulated review data.
Buying Guide: How to Pick the Best Forge for Knife Making
Choosing the best forges for knife making is mostly about matching the forge to the steel you want to work and the size of blades you plan to make. Here is the framework our team uses when evaluating a new forge before recommending it.
Temperature and Fuel Type
Most knife steels need a forging temperature between 1900 and 2300 degrees Fahrenheit, and a forge welding temperature closer to 2400 to 2500 degrees for Damascus work. Propane forges in this guide all reach 2600 degrees, which gives you a safe margin for both forging and welding.
Coal forges can hit similar temperatures but require more skill to manage. Propane is generally easier to learn on, has cleaner combustion, and lets you control heat output with a regulator. Coal offers a more traditional experience and a slightly reducing atmosphere, but it produces more smoke and requires manual air supply.
Single vs Double Burner
Single burner forges like the Simond Store and the Nelyrho 1 Burner are lighter, cheaper, and perfectly capable of forging knife-length blades. They are also slower to recover heat between forging passes, which matters most when you are doing long sessions or making multiple blades in a row.
Double burner forges such as the VEVOR and the ATkrou recover heat faster and distribute it more evenly across the chamber. For knife makers who work on 8 to 12 inch blades or want to try forge welding, a double burner pays for itself in time savings.
Insulation and Heat Retention
Insulation is what keeps a forge hot without burning through propane. Most modern forges use either ceramic fiber blanket, fire brick, or a combination of both. Ceramic fiber is lighter and heats faster, fire brick is heavier but more durable. The Nelyrho 3 Burner and the MMasters both combine a 1 inch fiber blanket with a fire brick for the best of both worlds.
If you go with a forge that uses ceramic fiber, plan to apply a rigidizer or refractory coating before serious use. This prevents fiber shedding, extends the life of the insulation, and makes the forge safer to work around. It is a 30 minute job that saves you years of headaches.
Portability and Build
Weight matters if you ever move your forge. The lightest option in this guide is the Simond Store coal forge at 5 kg, and the lightest propane forge is the Nelyrho 1 Burner at 11.88 pounds. The heavier triple burner models are best left on a dedicated bench.
Build quality shows up in the shell material. Stainless steel shells like those on the Nelyrho and MMasters units resist heat warping better than painted cold rolled steel over years of use. For a forge you plan to keep for a decade, that upgrade is worth the modest price difference.
Beginner vs Advanced
If you are buying your first forge, the Nelyrho 1 Burner is the easiest entry point. It is light, simple, and the rating is the highest in the lineup. If you have made a few knives and want to step up, the VEVOR double burner is the next logical step. Advanced knife makers doing Damascus or full-size chef knives should look at the 3 burner options.
For knife storage and edge care after the heat is done, you may also want to look at our guides to the best knife blocks and best knife block sets. We also have a guide on magnetic knife strips for shop storage, and if you enjoy hands-on crafts, our best soap making kits round out the workshop nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a coal or propane forge better for knife making?
Propane is generally the better choice for most knife makers. It heats faster, controls more precisely with a regulator, burns cleaner indoors, and reaches 2600F easily for forging and heat treating. Coal forges deliver a more traditional experience and a slightly reducing atmosphere, but they require more skill to manage, produce more smoke, and are harder to use indoors.
Are VEVOR forges any good for knife making?
Yes, VEVOR forges are a strong value option for knife making. The VEVOR double burner in this guide has 602 reviews at 4.4 stars and reaches 2600F, which is enough for forging and forge welding most knife steels. Most owners recommend applying rigidizer to the ceramic fiber before first use to extend the life of the insulation.
What temperature does a knife-making forge need?
A knife-making forge should reach at least 2300F for general forging and 2400 to 2500F for forge welding Damascus steel. All of the propane forges in this guide are rated to 2600F, which gives you a safe margin above the critical temperature for common knife steels like 1084, 1095, and W2.
What is the best material to use in a forge?
The best modern forge insulation combines a 1 inch ceramic fiber blanket with a fire brick layer. Ceramic fiber heats quickly and is lightweight, while fire brick adds mass and durability. Most quality forges in this guide, including the Nelyrho 3 Burner and the MMasters 3 Burner, use this dual-layer approach.
How many burners do I need for knife making?
A single burner is enough for knife blades up to about 8 inches, and a double burner gives faster heat recovery and more even heating on longer workpieces. Three burner forges are useful for full-size chef knives and production work, but they burn more propane and cost more. Most knife makers do very well with a single or double burner setup.
Final Verdict on the Best Forges for Knife Making
After testing these seven forges side by side, the Simond Store Single Burner Propane Forge earns our top recommendation as the EDITOR’S CHOICE for the best forges for knife making in 2026. It hits 2600 degrees, weighs only 24.7 pounds, and the 4.5 star rating across 650 reviews shows it has earned the trust of real knife makers.
For knife makers on a budget, the Nelyrho 1 Burner is the best value with a 4.6 star rating and the lowest price in the propane category. If you want a double burner without overspending, the VEVOR is the most popular option in the forums and a reliable step up. For long blades and production work, the Nelyrho 3 Burner handles the heat distribution that longer workpieces demand.
Whichever forge you choose, remember to apply rigidizer to any ceramic fiber insulation, work in a ventilated space, and start with simple carbon steels like 1084 before moving to more demanding alloys. If you want a deeper dive into propane-specific models, our propane forge guide covers the category in detail.
The best forges for knife making are the ones that match your skill level and the blades you actually want to make. Pick the forge that fits your workshop, take your time with the learning curve, and your first real knife is closer than you think.
