Ep 5. Kora Sword

In Forged in Fire season 3 episode 5, titled "Kora Sword," four bladesmiths are tasked with creating a Kora sword, a traditional African weapon used for cutting and stabbing. The competitors must start by crafting their own high-carbon steel using a traditional African forging technique known as the "wootz" method.

After creating their steel, the bladesmiths move on to the Handle Round, where they must integrate a unique combination of traditional African materials, such as ostrich bones and cowhide, into their swords' handles. Judges J. Neilson, David Baker, and Doug Marcaida evaluate the blades on their sharpness and durability by testing them on a variety of targets, including dummies and bamboo.

In the end, only two bladesmiths move on to the final round, where they have just five days to create an authentic Kora sword. The blades must meet specific criteria, including a double-edged blade, a hilt for hand protection, and a curved shape. The final blades are tested in one of the show's most challenging and grueling challenges yet: slicing through an animal carcass.

Who will emerge victorious in this intense competition, and who will fall short? Tune in to Forged in Fire season 3 episode 5 to find out.