Knife making is an ancient craft that blends art, precision, and strength. At the heart of this process lies the anvil, a tool that provides the essential foundation for shaping and forging steel into knives. The quality of your anvil directly influences the accuracy, durability, and finish of the knives you create.

Choosing the right anvil depends on factors like material, weight, face size, horn design, and stability. While some anvils suit beginners because of their lightweight build and affordability, others are designed for professionals who demand long-lasting performance. Understanding the best options ensures you select an anvil that fits your forging style and budget.

This guide explores the 20 best anvils for knife making, explaining their strengths and drawbacks to help you make the right choice. Each review includes detailed insights plus 7 pros and 3 cons, making it easier to compare and choose the perfect anvil for your knife-making journey.

20 Best Anvil For Knife Making

1. NC Big Face Anvil – Best for Knife Forging

The NC Big Face Anvil is highly regarded for its wide working surface, making it excellent for shaping blades. Its hardened steel construction ensures durability and resistance to denting. The large face provides more space for knife work.

Knife makers appreciate its multi-functional horn that allows bending and shaping. The hardy and pritchel holes increase versatility by accommodating additional tools. Its strong, compact design makes it reliable for both beginners and experts.

Although heavy, this anvil’s stability and strength make it worth the investment. Its durability ensures many years of forging without losing quality. This anvil is ideal for those serious about knife making.

Pros:
• Wide face
• Strong build
• Smooth surface
• Versatile horn
• Tool holes
• Long-lasting
• Stable base

Cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy weight
• Less portable

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2. Kanca Forged Anvil – Best for Durability

The Kanca Forged Anvil is built from forged steel, ensuring resilience and longevity. Its polished face minimizes resistance during hammering, improving forging efficiency. The rebound effect saves energy and enhances precision.

It has a classic horn design that is perfect for shaping curves and edges. The hardy hole accommodates tool attachments for versatile forging. Its solid weight provides excellent stability.

Though heavy and pricier than starter anvils, its strength and balance make it ideal for professional work. Knife makers who prioritize durability find this anvil highly reliable. It stands out as a long-term investment for bladesmiths.

Pros:
• Forged steel
• Smooth surface
• Strong rebound
• Classic design
• Hardy hole
• Stable weight
• Long lifespan

Cons:
• Heavy
• Higher price
• Less portable

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3. Ridgid Peddinghaus Anvil – Best Professional Choice

The Ridgid Peddinghaus Anvil is renowned for professional-grade performance. Made in Germany, it uses top-quality steel resistant to wear and deformation. Its surface hardness ensures consistent forging results.

Its slender horn is excellent for shaping curves and knife tangs. Low vibration enhances precision while reducing fatigue. Knife makers appreciate its outstanding rebound, which improves energy transfer.

Although costly, it is often considered a lifetime tool. Its durability and reliability make it a staple among advanced bladesmiths. For professionals, this anvil is one of the best options available.

Pros:
• German steel
• Premium quality
• Smooth rebound
• Low vibration
• Long-lasting
• Slim horn
• Professional grade

Cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Less portable

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4. Happybuy Single Horn Anvil – Best Budget Option

The Happybuy Single Horn Anvil is a budget-friendly choice for new knife makers. It features a steel face with a cast-iron body, making it affordable yet functional. Despite its low cost, it performs well for small forging tasks.

Its horn design allows shaping and bending with ease. Lightweight construction makes it portable, suitable for beginners working in smaller workshops. Many users appreciate its value for money.

However, it’s not built for heavy forging and may wear faster. It is best suited for hobbyists and light projects. Still, it offers an excellent start for those learning knife making.

Pros:
• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Easy to move
• Decent face
• Good horn
• Beginner-friendly
• Compact size

Cons:
• Wears fast
• Not heavy-duty
• Limited durability

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5. JHM Competitor Anvil – Best for Bladesmiths

The JHM Competitor Anvil is known for its balance between size and performance. It is made from ductile iron with a hardened steel face, making it both strong and versatile. The face resists wear while providing excellent rebound.

Its well-proportioned horn helps with shaping blades and handles. The hardy and pritchel holes add functionality for tool use. Knife makers enjoy its reliability for everyday forging.

Though pricier than entry-level anvils, its durability and professional features justify the cost. This anvil is often recommended for serious hobbyists and semi-professionals. It strikes a good balance between portability and strength.

Pros:
• Durable face
• Good rebound
• Balanced size
• Tool holes
• Reliable horn
• Professional design
• Long-lasting

Cons:
• Pricey
• Heavy
• Less portable

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6. Emerson Traditional Anvil – Best for Classic Forging

The Emerson Traditional Anvil combines classic looks with modern strength. It is made of ductile iron with a hardened surface for durability. Its large face provides enough working area for knife projects.

The horn and heel are shaped for versatility, making forging easier. Its smooth surface ensures efficient hammering with minimal wear. Knife makers appreciate the timeless design.

While expensive, it is a solid investment for anyone committed to the craft. Its heavy build also makes it harder to move. Still, it is a dependable tool for knife forging.

Pros:
• Classic style
• Hardened face
• Smooth surface
• Large work area
• Reliable horn
• Strong rebound
• Long-term use

Cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Hard to move

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7. Grizzly Anvil – Best for Beginners

The Grizzly Anvil is an affordable choice for those starting knife making. Made of cast iron, it is lightweight and easy to handle. While not as durable as steel, it is sufficient for light forging.

It has a basic horn that allows bending and shaping. Its compact size makes it easy to store. Beginners often appreciate its low price and accessibility.

However, it’s not suitable for long-term heavy use. The face may chip or wear faster. Still, it’s a great learning tool.

Pros:
• Affordable
• Lightweight
• Easy storage
• Beginner-friendly
• Compact design
• Simple horn
• Portable

Cons:
• Less durable
• Weak surface
• Not for heavy use

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8. Old World Forged Anvil – Best Artisan Choice

The Old World Forged Anvil is hand-forged and appeals to artisans who value tradition. Its craftsmanship ensures strength and character. Knife makers appreciate its authenticity and uniqueness.

Its horn and hardy hole provide versatility for different knife shapes. The rebound is excellent, saving energy while forging. It’s ideal for those who value both function and artistry.

However, these anvils are often expensive and rare. They are less suitable for beginners due to cost. Still, they make excellent heirloom pieces for serious smiths.

Pros:
• Hand-forged
• Unique style
• Strong build
• Good rebound
• Hardy hole
• Artisan value
• Long-lasting

Cons:
• Expensive
• Rare
• Heavy

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9. Refflinghaus Anvil – Best German Craftsmanship

The Refflinghaus Anvil represents premium German engineering. Made from hardened steel, it provides unmatched durability and rebound. Its precision makes it excellent for detailed knife work.

Its slim horn and flat face are designed for versatility. Knife makers love the balance and reduced vibration. It is considered one of the finest anvils available.

The downside is its high cost. It is also quite heavy, limiting portability. Still, it’s an exceptional choice for professionals.

Pros:
• German steel
• Excellent rebound
• Premium quality
• Strong horn
• Low vibration
• Durable build
• Long lifespan

Cons:
• Very expensive
• Heavy
• Not portable

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10. TFS Blacksmith Anvil – Best All-Around

The TFS Blacksmith Anvil is versatile and suitable for both beginners and professionals. Made of ductile iron with a hardened face, it offers strength and longevity. Its rebound efficiency improves forging results.

The horn design is practical for knife curves and shaping. The hardy hole allows additional tools. Knife makers value its balance of weight and size.

It may not be as refined as premium German anvils but is highly reliable. Its durability ensures years of use. This makes it one of the best all-around options.

Pros:
• Balanced size
• Strong face
• Good rebound
• Tool holes
• Versatile horn
• Long-lasting
• Reliable

Cons:
• Pricey
• Heavy
• Less refined

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11. Blacksmiths’ Depot Anvil – Best for Knife Hobbyists

The Blacksmiths’ Depot Anvil is popular among hobby knife makers. It offers a smooth working surface with a solid rebound. Its design is simple yet effective for small-scale forging.

Its horn and heel are well-shaped for basic forging needs. Compact size makes it easy to store in smaller workshops. It is well suited for casual projects.

However, it’s not built for large or heavy forging. The cost is higher than budget models. Still, it is reliable for hobbyists.

Pros:
• Compact
• Smooth surface
• Good rebound
• Easy storage
• Reliable horn
• User-friendly
• Beginner-friendly

Cons:
• Not heavy-duty
• Pricier
• Limited durability

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12. Cliff Carroll Anvil – Best for Farrier Work

The Cliff Carroll Anvil is designed for farriers but works well for knife makers. It offers a wide face and balanced weight. Its rebound is efficient for forging steel.

The horn design is great for shaping blades. Its hardy hole increases versatility. Knife makers enjoy its straightforward functionality.

It may not be optimized specifically for knife making, but it performs well. Cost is moderate, making it accessible. It’s an excellent option for dual-purpose use.

Pros:
• Wide face
• Balanced weight
• Good rebound
• Hardy hole
• Versatile horn
• Affordable
• Reliable

Cons:
• Not knife-specific
• Average finish
• Moderate durability

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13. Harbor Freight Anvil – Best Entry-Level

The Harbor Freight Anvil is one of the cheapest options for beginners. Made of cast iron, it is lightweight and portable. It provides basic functionality for small forging tasks.

The horn is simple but usable. Its size makes it suitable for small workshops. Many new knife makers use it to learn.

It lacks durability and may chip under heavy use. It is only suitable for beginners. Still, it’s a low-risk investment.

Pros:
• Cheap
• Lightweight
• Portable
• Beginner-friendly
• Compact
• Easy to store
• Accessible

Cons:
• Weak build
• Wears quickly
• Not heavy-duty

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14. Peddinghaus 275 Anvil – Best Premium Choice

The Peddinghaus 275 Anvil is a premium model from Germany. It provides an exceptionally hard surface with incredible rebound. Knife makers consider it a professional-grade anvil.

Its slender horn is excellent for detailed shaping. The build quality ensures minimal vibration. Professionals appreciate its precision and strength.

However, it comes at a very high price. It is also extremely heavy. For serious professionals, it is worth the investment.

Pros:
• German quality
• Hard surface
• Excellent rebound
• Precision build
• Slim horn
• Professional grade
• Durable

Cons:
• Very expensive
• Heavy
• Not portable

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15. Atlas Anvil – Best Compact Anvil

The Atlas Anvil is small yet powerful, perfect for hobby knife makers. It offers a hardened steel face for consistent forging. Its compact size makes it ideal for limited spaces.

The horn is short but functional. Its rebound is surprisingly good for its size. Knife makers enjoy its portability and reliability.

While not built for large projects, it excels for small blades. Its cost is reasonable. This anvil balances portability with strength.

Pros:
• Compact
• Strong face
• Good rebound
• Portable
• Affordable
• User-friendly
• Space-saving

Cons:
• Small face
• Limited use
• Not heavy-duty

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16. Holland Anvil – Best Custom Option

The Holland Anvil is custom-made in the USA, offering premium craftsmanship. It is made from tool steel with a hardened face. Knife makers value its precision and strength.

Its horn and heel are shaped for versatile work. Hardy holes add more functionality. It is designed with attention to detail.

Though expensive, it is highly durable and long-lasting. This makes it ideal for dedicated knife makers. It is often regarded as an heirloom tool.

Pros:
• Premium steel
• Custom-made
• Strong rebound
• Detailed design
• Hardy holes
• Long-lasting
• Professional grade

Cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Limited availability

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17. Vaughn Anvil – Best Affordable Steel Option

The Vaughn Anvil is made from solid steel, offering durability at an affordable price. It has a wide face suitable for knife forging. Knife makers appreciate its rebound and balance.

The horn design is effective for shaping curves. Its weight provides stability during forging. It is more durable than cast-iron alternatives.

Though less refined than premium anvils, it offers great value. It is excellent for intermediate knife makers. Its reliability makes it worth considering.

Pros:
• Affordable steel
• Wide face
• Stable weight
• Good rebound
• Strong horn
• Durable
• Reliable

Cons:
• Average finish
• Heavy
• Not premium

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18. Kohlswa Anvil – Best Swedish Steel

The Kohlswa Anvil is a premium Swedish-made anvil. It features hardened steel construction for unmatched durability. Knife makers admire its precision and rebound.

Its horn and face are well-designed for bladesmithing. Reduced vibration helps improve accuracy. It is considered one of the finest anvils globally.

The main drawback is its high cost and weight. It is more suited for professionals. Still, it provides excellent forging performance.

Pros:
• Swedish steel
• Premium build
• Great rebound
• Low vibration
• Strong horn
• Durable
• Reliable

Cons:
• Expensive
• Heavy
• Rare

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19. Euroanvil – Best Mid-Range

The Euroanvil offers solid performance at a mid-range price. It features a hardened face for strength. Knife makers enjoy its rebound and usability.

Its horn and hardy hole provide versatility. The weight ensures stability during forging. It’s a reliable tool for both hobbyists and semi-professionals.

Though not as refined as German models, it performs very well. Its balance of price and performance makes it attractive. This anvil is a great all-around choice.

Pros:
• Mid-priced
• Good surface
• Strong rebound
• Versatile horn
• Hardy hole
• Stable
• Reliable

Cons:
• Not premium
• Heavy
• Limited refinement

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20. Fontanini Anvil – Best Italian Craft

The Fontanini Anvil is crafted in Italy with attention to detail. It uses premium steel for strength and rebound. Knife makers love its elegance and quality.

Its horn and face are practical for knife shaping. Reduced vibration improves forging comfort. It blends style with performance.

However, it is expensive and less common. It is best suited for dedicated professionals. Still, it stands out for its quality and craftsmanship.

Pros:
• Italian steel
• Premium build
• Smooth rebound
• Stylish design
• Strong horn
• Low vibration
• Durable

Cons:
• Expensive
• Rare
• Heavy

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Best Anvil For Knife Making FAQs

1. What size anvil is best for knife making?

For most knife makers, an anvil weighing between 100–200 lbs is ideal. It provides stability while still being manageable. Smaller anvils work for beginners, while professionals prefer heavier ones.

2. Is cast iron or steel better for anvils?

Steel anvils are better because they offer durability, rebound, and resistance to wear. Cast iron anvils are cheaper but wear out faster. Serious knife makers should invest in steel.

3. Do I need a horn on my anvil for knife making?

Yes, a horn is useful for shaping curves, handles, and tangs. However, flat-faced anvils can still forge knives effectively. Having a horn adds versatility to your work.

4. How much should I spend on an anvil for knife making?

Beginners can start with anvils under $200, while professionals often invest $800–$2000 or more. The right choice depends on budget and usage. Quality anvils are long-term investments.

5. Can I use a small anvil for knife making?

Yes, but only for smaller blades. Compact anvils work well for hobbyists or limited spaces. For larger knives, a bigger anvil is recommended.

6. What’s the difference between forged and cast anvils?

Forged anvils are made from solid steel and are stronger and more durable. Cast anvils are cheaper but prone to cracks and wear. Knife makers prefer forged models for longevity.

7. How long does a good anvil last?

With proper care, a high-quality steel anvil can last a lifetime or more. Many are passed down through generations. Durability depends on material and usage.

Conclusion

Choosing the best anvil for knife making is an essential step in your bladesmithing journey. From affordable beginner options to premium professional-grade anvils, there is a tool for every budget and skill level. The right anvil provides stability, precision, and longevity for all your forging projects.

When making your choice, always consider weight, material, horn design, and durability. Remember that a good anvil is not just a purchase—it’s an investment in your craft.

If you are serious about knife making, don’t settle for less—pick an anvil that matches your goals. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy smoother forging and better-quality knives. Start your knife-making journey today and let your anvil become the foundation of your success.