Ep 1. Judges Pick

The popular history channel show, Forged in Fire, takes viewers on a journey through the craft of bladesmithing. Each episode of the show challenges four contestants to create a high-quality weapon, knives, or sword in a matter of hours. But not only must the contestants produce a sharp and functional blade, they must also impress the show's panel of expert judges, who will scrutinize their techniques, attention to detail, and overall craftsmanship.

The season 4 premiere of Forged in Fire, titled Judges Pick, sees the judges selecting their favorite weapons from previous episodes to challenge the new crop of contestants. Judges Wil Willis, Doug Marcaida, and David Baker have each chosen a unique blade crafted in previous seasons to put the new contestants' skills to the test. This episode truly tests these bladesmiths' mettle as they must not only create a high-quality weapon under pressure but also must match the caliber of previous guest judges.

The first weapon up for critique is a Chinese-style hand-and-a-half broadsword that was featured in a previous episode. The sword's intricate design elements and sharp edges are a true test of the contestants' skill. They have to use techniques and artistic approaches that pay tribute to this sword's Chinese roots. From start to finish, we witness the creativity, skill, and passion that the contestants bring to the crafting of this blade.

Next up is the Scottish broadsword, which has been selected by Judge Doug Marcaida. The classic sword has seen many iterations on the show and is a test of the contestants' strength and dexterity as they attempt to craft the authentic Scottish blade. This sword has been crafted numerous times before on the show, so it's important that the contestants bring their unique style and approach to this classic blade. It's amazing to see how the contestants are able to infuse their unique perspectives into the construction process.

Judge David Baker's pick is a sword made by his favorite smith in previous seasons. The sword was crafted in the style of the Damascus steel blades and features an intricate and beautiful pattern of hammered and folded steel. The contestants must use all their knowledge of metallurgy to recreate this work of art. As they craft the blade, we witness the unique way each contestant approaches forging a blade and the unique techniques they use to create the distinctive details of the blade.

Lastly, we see Judge Wil Willis's favorite weapon from previous episodes, the Attila the Hun Scramasax. The contestants must take on this historical blade, which was used by the barbarian tribe known as the Huns. The blade has a unique shape that requires exceptional skill to forge, and contestants worked hard to master its balance and edge retention.

The Judges Pick episode of Forged in Fire is a culmination of some of the best work that has been seen in previous seasons, and it's exciting to see them get recreated into authentic blades, as well as to see the unique perspectives and approaches that the new contestants brought to the table. No matter if this is your first time tuning in or you're a longtime fan, Forged in Fire: Judges Pick is a must-see for anyone that is interested in bladesmithing. With its innovative challenges, skilled contestants, and expert judges, the show is truly a cut above the rest.