Ep 2. Fan Favorites

In Forged in Fire season 3 episode 2, titled "Fan Favorites," four former contestants return to the forge for another chance at victory. Each contestant is eager to prove their skills and impress the judges in order to win a cash prize and the title of Forged in Fire champion.

The first challenge requires the four smiths to create a Japanese tanto, a type of short sword used by samurais. The contestants each have to choose their own metal and use traditional Japanese techniques, such as differential hardening, to create a blade that is both sharp and durable.

After a grueling five hours, the judges examine each tanto and critique the blades based on their sharpness, balance, and overall aesthetic. One smith's blade stands out above the rest, while another's falls tragically short.

In the second round, the remaining three contestants must create one of the most challenging weapons in Forged in Fire history: the chakram, a circular throwing weapon from India. The smiths must forge a pair of chakrams from susuwatari, a rare and difficult-to-work metal that is notoriously unstable.

The contestants struggle with the metal, and tempers flare as they rush to finish their weapons before time runs out. The judges critique each chakram based on its balance, weight, and tossability.

After a tense final round, only two contestants remain. They must create the Andean bolo, a unique weapon from South America that consists of two balls connected by a chain or cord. The smiths sweat and strain through the intense three-hour challenge, using all their skills to craft a weapon that combines beauty and lethality.

Finally, the judges examine each bolo and determine which smith's weapon is truly worthy of the title Forged in Fire champion. The contestants watch with bated breath as the judges make their final decision.

In the end, only one smith emerges victorious, earning the coveted title and a cash prize. The episode highlights the incredible skill and dedication required to be a successful bladesmith, and showcases the unique challenges faced by contestants on Forged in Fire.