Ep 8. Blades of WWI

In episode eight of Master of Arms season one, titled Blades of WWI, the contestants are tasked with creating historical weapons that would have been used during the First World War. The judges, Ashley Hlebinsky, Nicholas Irving, and Zeke Stout, provide each contestant with a photograph of a weapon from the time period, along with a brief history of how it was used in combat.

The first weapon the contestants are to replicate is the French Chauchat machine gun. This particular weapon was notorious for jamming frequently during battle and causing casualties as a result. The contestants are given three days to create a replica of the Chauchat using only period-appropriate tools and materials. Some of the weaponsmiths struggle with the challenges of craftsmanship and the time constraint, while others thrive under the pressure.

Next up, the contestants are tasked with creating the British P1907 bayonet, which was used in close combat during the war. The judges provide each contestant with a picture of the bayonet, along with a demonstration of its use in battle. The weaponsmiths must use their knowledge of metallurgy and blacksmithing techniques to create a functional and historically accurate bayonet.

The final challenge of the episode involves the creation of a German Trench Club. Trench clubs were improvised weapons used by soldiers to defend themselves during hand-to-hand combat in the trenches. The contestants are given a photograph of a Trench Club, along with some information on how they were used by German soldiers. They must create their own version of the club using only materials and tools that would have been available during the war.

Throughout the episode, the weaponsmiths face a number of challenges as they work to create their weapons. Some struggle with the difficult craftsmanship involved in replicating historical weapons, while others struggle with time management and the need to make their weapons functional as well as historically accurate. In a particularly tense moment, one contestant accidentally touches a hot piece of metal to his own arm, causing a severe burn that threatens to put him out of the competition.

As the episode comes to a close, the three judges inspect the contestants' weapons and evaluate them based on their craftsmanship, historical accuracy, and functionality. Only one weaponsmith will be named the Master of Arms for this episode, earning a cash prize and the respect of their fellow competitors.

Blades of WWI is a thrilling episode that showcases the talent and dedication of the Master of Arms contestants. From the intricate details of the Chauchat machine gun to the brutal simplicity of the Trench Club, each weapon is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the soldiers who fought in the First World War. This episode is a must-see for anyone interested in military history, blacksmithing, or the art of weapon-making.