Ep 19. International Championship

In season 4 episode 19 of Forged in Fire, titled "International Championship," four bladesmiths from around the world come together to compete for a chance to be named the Forged in Fire International Champion. In this intense episode, the contestants are put to the test as they must forge a blade using steel from a traditional Japanese Nihonto sword. They must then face the daunting task of recreating a weapon legendary in the Philippines, the Talibong.

The first challenge involves each contestant forging a blade using the Nihonto steel, which they must then quench in water. This quenching process is a critical point in the forging process, as it hardens the blade and gives it its characteristic sharp edge. The bladesmiths must also incorporate a signature technique into their blade, which they hope will impress the judges.

After the first round, the judges select two bladesmiths to move on to round two. In this round, the remaining contestants must recreate the Talibong, a traditional Philippine weapon used for close combat. This weapon has a unique curved blade and is a challenging project for any bladesmith to undertake.

As the bladesmiths work on their Talibong replicas, they must also include a handle made from a traditional Philippine wood. This handle adds a layer of functionality to the weapon, as it provides a secure grip for the wielder.

At the end of the second round, only one bladesmith is crowned the Forged in Fire International Champion. The judges assess each blade on its sharpness, durability, and design, as well as how the blade holds up under tough testing conditions. The winner takes home a cash prize and the bragging rights of being named the best bladesmith in the world.

Throughout the episode, viewers get an inside look into the fascinating world of bladesmithing. They see the intricate process of forging a blade from raw steel, as well as the skill and artistry it takes to create a functional weapon. The contestants also share their stories and backgrounds, showing how bladesmithing is a deeply personal and meaningful craft.

Overall, Forged in Fire season 4 episode 19 is a thrilling and action-packed episode that showcases the best bladesmiths from around the world. The International Championship challenge presents a unique opportunity for contestants to showcase their talents and compete against the best of the best. Whether you're a fan of bladesmithing or simply enjoy watching intense competition, this episode is not to be missed.