Ep 6. Rock Star Smiths

In Forged in Fire: Beat the Judges season 1 episode 6, titled "Rock Star Smiths," four smiths compete against each other in two rounds to prove their worth and skill with a blade. The show brings together three judges - J. Neilson, David Baker, and Ben Abbott - who are all experienced bladesmiths themselves and have created some of the most powerful and reliable weapons in the world.

For the first round, the contestants must create a long knife that can be used in the wild for survival purposes. The judges provide them with a piece of 1075 steel that they must use to craft their blade, and the contestants are given only three hours to complete their task. The competitors take different approaches to their tasks, some focusing on creating a blade with a sturdy handle, while others prioritize the sharpness and durability of the blade edge. With three hours to work, the contestants must balance speed and precision to produce the best possible result.

After the first round, the three judges evaluate the knives that have been forged and choose the top two blades to move on to the final round. The contestants who didn't make the cut bid farewell, and the final two are given a different task - to create the legendary Zande spear. This ancient weapon was used by the Zande warriors in Africa, and its design has been passed down through the ages.

The contestants have five hours to complete their task, and they are provided with a high-carbon steel blade that they must shape to fit the Zande spear's long and slender design. They are also given the decorative collar, which is an important part of the weapon's design, and must incorporate it accordingly. The second round proves to be more challenging, as the competitors must pay special attention to the details of the weapon's design, including its long and pointed tip, and the ornate handle that provides a firm grip.

Once the final two contestants complete their Zande spears, the judges evaluate the weapons and declare a winner. The winning contestant is awarded a cash prize and bragging rights, and the judges provide feedback on what was done well and what could have been improved. The show highlights the skill, patience, and creativity required to craft such a remarkable weapon, and the importance of respecting the history and culture behind it.

Overall, Forged in Fire: Beat the Judges season 1 episode 6, "Rock Star Smiths," is a thrilling and informative episode that showcases the expertise and creativity of professional bladesmiths. The show's emphasis on historical weaponry provides a unique perspective on the art and science of smithing, and the judges' feedback helps viewers understand what makes a good blade (or spear). Whether you're a fan of weapons or just appreciate fine craftsmanship, Forged in Fire: Beat the Judges is a must-watch series for any enthusiast.