Defective "Reciprocating Hammer" Anvils => 8 photos

 Of all kinds of errors any setter can make is to forget the most important tool and that is the "Reciprocating Hammer Anvil". 

These little 'darling' anvils can be an enemy if they are neglected.

 This particular anvil being shown needs to be refurbished, why? The four points are damaged beyond repair. But they can be easily repaired by reshaping the leading edge with an Emery Wheel of Medium grit (not a file).

 If the anvil is beyond repair, just replace it. NEVER USE IT if it's badly worn.

 

 When it is time to repair it, just hold it in the ring clamp of your choice and resurface the 'top, four corners and side edges'. DONE!

 When you see that some of the corners are 'broken off'...STOP!!! Immediately remove the anvil and repair it. For the few dollars, this simple action will be a life-saver to you while it is being used.

 This is the simpler way of repairing the "Reciprocating Anvil". All I use is an "Emery, Snap-On Wheel" of Medium grit and here is the technique or process.

 What I have been doing in the past is to colour the broken

areas with "RED INK". These are the 'damaged areas' and this indicates the offending areas that need to be fixed.

 This is a major broken anvil there are four corners, the top of the anvil surface, plus the sides. 

 This cleaning process will only take a few minutes, but you've learned how to do it again with much care.

 These four corners are not only for the shape, but many times the setter will use them for 'selected areas for hammering'.