Ep 16. The Sword in the Stone

In Forged in Fire season 7 episode 16, titled "The Sword in the Stone," four bladesmiths are challenged to create a Damascus pattern in just three hours. The blade must then be used to slice through two ice blocks in a strength test. The two remaining contestants must then create a historical sword known as the Sword in the Stone, which is a medieval European weapon. The Sword in the Stone is unique in that the blade is embedded in a solid block of steel, making it extremely difficult to create.

The first round begins with the four bladesmiths each forging their own Damascus pattern in just three hours. The judges are looking for a well-crafted blade with a sharp edge, enough weight to be powerful, and a strong grip. The blades are then put to the test in a strength test where they must slice through two ice blocks. After this round, two bladesmiths are eliminated, leaving the final two contestants competing for the title of Forged in Fire Champion.

In the final round, the two remaining bladesmiths must create the historic Sword in the Stone. This is no small feat, as the sword requires a very unique and difficult process to create. The blade is embedded in a solid block of steel, and the blade itself must be extremely durable and strong enough to cut through the solid steel block. For this final round, the judges are looking for a blade with a unique design that is historically accurate, with a solid and strong blade, and an overall appearance that is impressive.

Throughout the episode, the bladesmiths are given assistance from the judges, who provide helpful feedback on the process of creating the blade, and who also offer words of encouragement to keep the contestants motivated. The contestants are under immense stress throughout the entire forging process, and tensions run high as they compete for the championship title.

Once both blades are completed, they are put to the test in a final sharpness and durability test. This test includes striking various materials, such as a pig carcass, to test the durability of the blade, and slicing through a variety of materials to test the sharpness and accuracy of the blade. The winner of the Forged in Fire Championship is announced, and the episode ends with the victorious bladesmith being congratulated by the judges and fellow contestants.

Overall, Forged in Fire season 7 episode 16 offers a thrilling competition for viewers, as they watch the bladesmiths create stunning blades and sword designs, put them to the test with unique strength and sharpness tests, and ultimately compete for the title of Forged in Fire Champion. The episode showcases the intense skill and creativity required in blade-smithing, and provides viewers with a glimpse into the world of forging and metallurgy.