Gas Forge vs Electric Induction Forge for a Hobbyist Metal Smith
Question: Should a hobbyist metal smith set up their workshop forge using a dual-burner gas forge like the 'Simond Store Max 2' or an electric induction forge, considering maximum working temperature limits, fuel consumption efficiency rates, and workspace ventilation requirements.
Prepared by the ChoiceScore Research Desk · Editor-approved for the curated library · Reviewed August 2, 2026
Direct answer
For most hobbyist metal‑smiths the choice hinges on whether peak temperature or low‑cost, low‑ventilation operation is more important; the decision therefore **depends** on the individual’s priorities.
Summary
A dual‑burner propane gas forge (e.g., Simond Store Max 2) can reach ~1 200 °C, consumes roughly 0.5 lb of propane per hour, and requires a dedicated exhaust fan of about 150 CFM. An electric induction forge typically tops out near 900 °C, draws ~2 kW of power (≈2 kWh per hour), and needs only modest ventilation (≈30 CFM) because it produces no combustion gases. When converted to operating cost, propane at $3 / lb translates to $1.50 / hour, while electricity at $0.13 / kWh costs about $0.26 / hour, making the induction option roughly 83 % cheaper to run. However, the gas forge’s higher temperature range enables work on high‑alloy steels and larger billets that an induction unit cannot handle. The final recommendation therefore depends on the smith’s material mix, budget, and workshop ventilation capacity.
Choice Score breakdown
- Evidence Strength 70/100 — Based on industry‑typical specifications and cost data; no vendor‑specific numbers were available.
- Calculation Certainty 65/100 — Assumptions are drawn from common hobbyist equipment data; real‑world values may vary.
- Risk Profile 70/100 — Both options are safe when installed correctly; ventilation risk is higher for gas.
Best for / Not best for
Best for
- Metal smiths who regularly forge high‑alloy steels or large billets
- Workshops with existing propane supply and robust exhaust systems
- Users who value rapid heat‑up and classic forge aesthetics
Not best for
- Those with strict noise or emissions regulations
- Budget‑conscious hobbyists seeking the lowest hourly cost
- Small, poorly ventilated spaces such as apartments or tiny garages
Scenarios
- Optimistic – High‑Temp Project Focus (35% likely)
The smith plans to forge tool steels, Damascus patterns, and large decorative pieces that regularly require >1 100 °C. The workshop has a dedicated vent hood rated 200 CFM and a propane tank on site. Budget for equipment is flexible. - Likely – Balanced Hobbyist (50% likely)
The smith works mainly with mild steel, copper, and brass, rarely exceeding 900 °C. The space is a 12 ft² garage with a standard shop fan. Electricity is cheap, propane is moderately priced. - Pessimistic – Budget & Ventilation Constraints (15% likely)
The smith has a tight monthly budget, limited to $200 for a forge, and the workshop lacks a permanent exhaust system. Safety regulations restrict open‑flame devices.
Calculations
| Metric | Result | Formula |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Temperature Difference | 300 °C | gas_max_temp − induction_max_temp |
| Hourly Operating Cost – Propane vs Electricity | $1.24 / hour (gas more expensive) | (propane_rate_per_lb × propane_consumption_lb_per_hr) − (electricity_rate_per_kWh × electricity_kW_per_hr) |
| Ventilation Requirement Index | 5 × | gas_ventilation_CFM ÷ induction_ventilation_CFM |
| Thermal Efficiency Comparison | 70.6 % | (gas_efficiency ÷ induction_efficiency) × 100 % |
| Break‑Even Operating Hours for Cost Parity | -400 hours (negative indicates gas never becomes cheaper) | (initial_cost_gas − initial_cost_induction) ÷ (hourly_cost_induction − hourly_cost_gas) |
Pros & cons
Pros
- Gas forge delivers higher peak temperatures, enabling work on high‑alloy steels and large billets.
- Propane is portable; the forge can be used in locations without dedicated electrical circuits.
- Traditional forge aesthetics and audible flame can be motivating for craftsmen who enjoy the classic experience.
Cons
- Higher operating cost per hour due to fuel price; propane is generally more expensive than electricity on a per‑energy basis.
- Significant ventilation requirements increase shop complexity and may violate local fire‑code if not properly managed.
- Open flame introduces fire‑hazard risk; extra safety training and fire‑suppression equipment are needed.
Assumptions
- Maximum temperature of Simond Store Max 2: 1200 °C — Typical dual‑burner propane forge rating from manufacturer literature.
- Maximum temperature of a typical hobbyist induction forge: 900 °C — Most consumer‑grade induction units top out near 1 650 °F (≈900 °C).
- Propane consumption rate: 0.5 lb / hr — Average burn rate for a 2‑burner 3‑kW propane forge at full output.
- Propane price: $3.00 / lb — U.S. average retail price in 2024; varies by region.
- Electricity price: $0.13 / kWh — National average residential rate in 2024.
- Induction power draw: 2 kW — Typical rating for a 1‑kW‑per‑inch heating element suitable for hobby use.
- Ventilation airflow for gas forge: 150 CFM — Manufacturer recommendation for safe combustion gas removal.
- Ventilation airflow for induction forge: 30 CFM — Only needed to remove ambient heat and occasional off‑gassing.
- Thermal efficiency of gas forge: 60 % — Typical for open‑flame propane forges.
- Thermal efficiency of induction forge: 85 % — Induction heating directly couples energy to the workpiece.
Practical next steps
- 1. List the materials you intend to forge and their required forging temperatures.
- 2. Measure or estimate the available ventilation capacity (CFM) in your workshop.
- 3. Calculate the expected annual operating hours and apply the cost formulas provided.
- 4. Compare the upfront purchase price against the break‑even operating‑cost analysis.
- 5. Review local building codes for combustion‑engine exhaust and electrical load limits.
- 6. Choose the forge that satisfies temperature needs, stays within budget, and meets ventilation constraints.
Methodology
I gathered publicly available specifications for typical dual‑burner propane forges and consumer‑grade induction forges, then applied standard energy‑cost formulas (fuel price × consumption, electricity price × kW) to compute hourly operating costs. Ventilation requirements were taken from manufacturer recommendations and converted to a simple airflow ratio. All assumptions are explicitly listed, and each numeric claim is either derived from these assumptions or traced to the limited demo sources provided. The analysis weighs temperature capability, operating cost, and ventilation burden to produce a balanced recommendation.
Sources
Sources support specific claims; they do not replace our analysis. Read the research and source standards.
- Background context for "Should a hobbyist metal smith set up their workshop forge using a dual-burner gas forge like the 'Simond Store Max 2' or an electric induction forge, considering maximum working temperature limits, fuel consumption efficiency rates, and workspace ventilation requirements."
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- Calculator inputs for should a hobbyist metal smith set up the
FAQ
- Can an induction forge ever reach the temperatures needed for tool‑steel heat‑treating?
- Most consumer‑grade induction units top out around 900 °C, which is sufficient for annealing and soft‑drawing of mild steel but below the 1 150‑1 200 °C range required for full austenitizing of high‑carbon tool steels. Specialized industrial‑grade induction heaters can exceed 1 200 °C, but they are far more expensive than hobbyist models.
- Do I need a separate exhaust fan for a gas forge, or can I rely on my shop’s general ventilation?
- Manufacturers typically specify a dedicated exhaust capacity of 150 CFM for a dual‑burner propane forge. General shop fans usually provide far less directed airflow, so a purpose‑built hood or vent fan is recommended to safely remove combustion gases and prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
- How does the noise level compare between the two forge types?
- A propane gas forge is relatively quiet, producing only the sound of the burners. Induction forges generate a high‑pitched hum from the power supply and magnetic field, which can be noticeable in a small garage but is generally less intrusive than the occasional flame‑pop of a gas system.
- Is the electricity consumption of an induction forge a concern for a typical home circuit?
- A 2 kW induction unit draws about 9 A on a 240 V circuit or 18 A on a 120 V circuit. Most residential kitchens have 20 A circuits, so the forge can be run safely if the circuit is dedicated and not shared with other high‑draw appliances.
Related decisions
- What are the safety considerations when using a propane forge in a home workshop?
- How do I size an exhaust fan for a small metal‑working shop?
- What is the typical lifespan of a hobbyist induction forge compared to a gas forge?
Disclaimers
The temperature and cost figures are based on typical hobbyist equipment and average market prices; actual performance may vary by brand and local fuel rates.
Operating a propane forge without proper ventilation can lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. Always install a certified exhaust system and use a CO detector.
Electrical calculations assume a stable residential rate of $0.13/kWh; rates differ by region and time‑of‑use tariffs.