Ep 23. The Chinese Zhanmadao

In Forged in Fire season 7 episode 23, titled "The Chinese Zhanmadao," four bladesmiths are put to the test as they attempt to recreate one of China's most iconic weapons: the Zhanmadao. This heavy blade, also known as the Mongolian saber, was used extensively during the Ming and Qing dynasties and was favored by both infantry and cavalry.

The first challenge the bladesmiths face is to forge their blades from a pile of steel that is more than a century old. The steel has been salvaged from a decommissioned ship and is therefore of unknown composition. The bladesmiths must use their expertise to select the right pieces of steel and then forge and shape their blades into the distinctive curved shape of a Zhanmadao.

Once their blades are forged, the bladesmiths move on to the second challenge: creating a handle and guard for their weapon. This is an opportunity for the bladesmiths to showcase their creativity and skill as they choose materials and techniques that best complement their blade.

The third and final challenge sees the remaining contestants put their weapons to the test in a series of brutal strength and cutting tests. First, the blades must chop through a stack of bamboo and then slice through several tatami mats. The blades that survive this test move on to the strength test, where they must hack through a thick metal plate.

In the last challenge, the two final bladesmiths must create a Chinese dao, another type of traditional sword. This is an opportunity for the bladesmiths to showcase their skill and versatility as they work with a different type of weapon.

Throughout the episode, the bladesmiths are judged by a panel of experts who test their weapons for sharpness, durability, and overall effectiveness. Only one bladesmith can emerge as the winner and claim the title of Forged in Fire champion.

Overall, "The Chinese Zhanmadao" is a thrilling episode that showcases the unique history and culture of China through its iconic weapons. The episode also gives viewers an inside look at the skills and craftsmanship required to create these weapons, as well as the intense physical demands required to use them effectively.