Ep 5. Viking Sword
- TVPG
- March 15, 2016
- 42 min
-
7.6 (49)
In Forged in Fire season 2 episode 5 titled "Viking Sword," four bladesmiths compete to recreate one of history's most iconic weapons: the Viking Sword. The contestants are given three hours to forge their blade using traditional methods with charcoal forges and hand-powered bellows. They must also use different types of steel, including the high-carbon steel typically used in Viking swords, which requires careful heating and cooling to prevent it from breaking.
After the initial forging round, the bladesmiths take their unfinished swords to the next phase of the competition: the dreaded quench. This is where the sword is heated up to a high temperature and then quickly cooled in oil, which can cause the blade to warp or even shatter if not done correctly.
But the contestants don't have to worry about that yet. First, they must pass a grueling strength and sharpness test. Industrial machinery is used to gauge the sword's strength, while a sharpness test involves slicing through a variety of materials like rope, leather, and bamboo. The judges also inspect each sword for aesthetic appeal and historical accuracy.
Only two bladesmiths make it to the final round, where they have just five days to fully complete their Viking swords. They add handle materials, like antler or bone, before attaching a pommel and guard to finish the sword. At the end of the final round, the judges once again test each sword for strength and sharpness.
The winner of this episode of Forged in Fire season 2 episode 5 is determined through a final round of combat testing. The two remaining bladesmiths face off in a series of challenges that test the sword's durability and sharpness. In one challenge, the sword must slice through a pig carcass, while in another, it must chop through a rope.
In the end, only one bladesmith will be crowned the winner of this competition and be awarded a $10,000 grand prize. Tune in to Forged in Fire season 2 episode 5, "Viking Sword," to find out who will emerge victorious in this epic bladesmithing battle.
