Ep 22. Knights Templar

In Forged in Fire season 4 episode 22, titled Knights Templar, the bladesmiths are put to the test as they are tasked with forging one of the most iconic weapons in history - a Templar sword. The episode begins with the competitors meeting the judges - Neilson, Baker, and Abbott - and receiving their first challenge: to transform a pile of scrap metal into a fully functional blade using only traditional blacksmithing techniques.

As the smiths get to work, they face a number of challenges, from the intense heat of the forge to the precise hammer blows needed to shape the metal into the desired form. Some contestants struggle with getting their blades straight, while others run into issues with cracks or warping. Despite these setbacks, all of the smiths remain determined to create a blade worthy of the Knight's Templar.

After the first round of competition, the judges inspect each blade and eliminate one contestant. The remaining smiths move on to the second challenge, where they must add a handle to their blades and create a functional weapon. This round presents new challenges, as the smiths must carefully balance the weight and balance of the blade with the design of the handle. Some contestants opt for traditional materials, while others use modern elements to create unique and functional designs.

As the bladesmiths work, they are informed about the history and significance of the Knight's Templar, a powerful religious order that existed during the Middle Ages. The judges explain how these elite warriors used weapons like the Templar sword to defend Christian pilgrims and fight in the Crusades. The smiths take this history to heart, and strive to create a blade that represents the values and traditions of the Knight's Templar.

In the final round, the remaining contestants present their completed blades to the judges for testing. The blades are put through a series of rigorous tests, including a sharpness test and a ballistic competition. The judges evaluate each blade on its strength, durability, and historical accuracy, and ultimately choose a winner based on the performance of their weapon.

Overall, Forged in Fire season 4 episode 22 is a thrilling and informative episode that showcases the skill and determination of the bladesmiths. It highlights the rich history of the Knight's Templar and the important role that weapons like the Templar sword played in the ancient world. Fans of the show will appreciate the intense competition and stunning craftsmanship on display, while history buffs will enjoy learning more about this fascinating period in human history.