Ep 15. The Nagamaki

In season 6 episode 15 of Forged in Fire, titled "The Nagamaki," four bladesmiths are tasked with creating a Japanese nagamaki, a long pole blade with a curved blade on the end, from scratch. The judges of the show, renowned knife experts, will evaluate their work and decide who will be the winner of the $10,000 prize.

The first challenge of the episode requires the four contestants to create the high carbon steel for their blades, which is a critical component of the nagamaki. They are given raw steel which they must fold multiple times in order to create the desired pattern. The bladesmiths are then instructed to create the tang, or handle, of their blades by welding the steel onto a steel rod. At this point in the competition, the knives are already starting to take shape.

The second challenge is where the show really gets interesting. The bladesmiths must create a handle for their nagamakis, which must be made of either wood or antler. They are given a choice of either curly maple, which is a very attractive and durable hardwood, or moose antler, which is very easy to grip and provides a unique look to the nagamaki. The competitors must create a handle that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing while also complementing the shape of the blade.

Once the handles are created, the bladesmiths must assemble all the pieces of their nagamaki and attach them to the pole, which must be made of traditional Japanese hardwood. The judges will be evaluating the overall construction of the blades, as well as their balance and sharpness when tested on a variety of surfaces.

Finally, the competitors must test their nagamakis on a series of challenges that are designed to put these bladed weapons through their paces. The blades are tested against a variety of materials, including rope, pig carcasses, and thick bamboo poles, to see how well they hold up to sustained usage and cutting. The final test for the winning blade is to be able to slice through a thick bamboo mat in a single swipe.

Overall, this episode of Forged in Fire is a fast-paced and exciting competition that challenges the bladesmiths to create a deadly, functional weapon that is both beautiful and highly effective. With $10,000 on the line and the prestige of the judges at stake, the contestants will have to bring their A-game if they hope to come out on top. Fans of the show are sure to be thrilled by this season 6 episode 15, which is packed with fascinating insights into the art of bladesmithing and the many challenges of creating traditional Japanese weapons.