Richard Hammond's Crash Course Season 1 Episode 5 Demolition
- TV-PG
- May 14, 2012
- 46 min
Richard Hammond's Crash Course is a fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled show that follows the beloved Top Gear presenter as he travels across America to learn and master various skill sets. In season 1 episode 5, titled "Demolition," Hammond heads to Las Vegas to learn about demolition and all of the explosive elements that go along with it.
The episode begins with Hammond meeting his demolition expert guide, Skip, who takes him to the Neon Boneyard, a haven for retired neon signs. Hammond learns that to master demolition, he needs to first understand the basic principles of explosives and their components. He gets an introduction to TNT and how to handle it safely before moving on to his first job of the day: taking down a small building with nothing but a sledgehammer.
As he swings his weapon of choice, Hammond learns about the importance of precision in demolitions. He also learns how to identify weak points in structures and target them accurately, all while keeping a safe distance from the building as it comes crashing down.
From there, the episode ramps up as Hammond moves on to his next challenge: a high-rise building demolition. With the use of over 450 pounds of explosives, Hammond and his team set off a controlled explosion that brings the entire building to the ground in just a matter of seconds. The whole process is incredibly intense as we see Hammond giving the thumbs up before running off to a safe distance to watch the spectacle.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. In perhaps the most hair-raising moment of the episode, Hammond is given the chance to detonate a 2,800-pound explosive charge that will bring down a massive smokestack. With the help of expert handlers, Hammond sets off the charge, and the smokestack comes crumbling down in a cloud of dust.
Throughout the episode, we see Hammond overcome his fears and gain a new respect for the power of explosives and their role in the world of demolition. He also learns just how much planning and strategy goes into every detonation, as even the tiniest mistake can have disastrous consequences.
"Demolition" is a thrilling episode that will leave viewers on the edge of their seats as they watch Hammond take on some of the most explosive challenges of his career. With each new challenge, he gains a deeper understanding and appreciation for the world of demolition and the skilled professionals who make it possible.