Buffalo Forge Blower Value Guide

The Buffalo Forge Blower is a quintessential piece of American industrial history, manufactured by the Buffalo Forge Company of New York between 1900 and 1930. These hand-cranked machines, such as the iconic Model 200, are highly collectible today due to their robust cast iron construction and their continued functionality for modern blacksmiths.

What Is Buffalo Forge Blower Worth?

The typical price range for Buffalo Forge Blower is $360 - $360 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• Mechanical functionality is paramount; blowers that produce a smooth, consistent airflow and have intact internal gears command the full $360 value.
• The presence of original paint or a well-preserved patina on the cast iron significantly impacts collector interest compared to heavily rusted units.
• Completeness of the assembly, including the original stand and mounting hardware, prevents the value from dropping.
• Cracks or welds in the cast iron housing, often caused by improper storage or freezing, can drastically reduce the market price.

How to Identify Buffalo Forge Blower?

• Look for the 'Buffalo Forge Co.' name and 'Buffalo, N.Y.' embossed directly into the cast iron gear housing.
• Verify the presence of the original hand-crank handle and the tripod or four-legged integrated stand.
• Check for specific model numbers, like the 'Model 200', which are typically cast into the side of the blower assembly.
• Examine the gear casing for the characteristic circular shape and heavy-duty steel bolts typical of early 20th-century production.

History of Buffalo Forge Blower

Buffalo Forge Company, founded in 1878 in Buffalo, New York, became a prominent manufacturer of industrial equipment, including forges, blowers, and drilling machines. Their hand-cranked forge blowers, like the Model 200, were essential tools for blacksmiths, providing a consistent airflow to heat iron and steel in forges. These robust machines were known for their durability and reliable performance, becoming a staple in workshops across America and beyond during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many are still functional today, cherished by collectors and modern blacksmiths.