Ep 11. Flip the Forge

The episode "Flip the Forge" of Forged in Fire season 9 opens with four new contestants, all experienced bladesmiths, competing to create a signature weapon worthy of winning the competition. In the first round, the contestants are presented with a piece of steel from an antique harrow disk, which they must turn into a high-quality blade following their individual designs.

As the bladesmiths get to work, they must use all their skills and expertise to heat, hammer, and shape the steel into the desired blade shape without damaging the hardening integrity of the metal. With only three hours to work, the heat level and timing must be perfect. Each blade has to undergo identical challenges to prove its versatility and quality, including a sharpness test and a strength test to ensure its quality.

In the second round, the remaining three contestants are tasked with creating a unique twist on a classic weapon - the boar spear. They must incorporate elements of the original weapon into their design, while also adding a personal touch to make it stand out. As the contestants whip up their creations, the judges observe their work, evaluating every detail of their design, and testing for durability, sharpness, and ease of use.

As the final round approaches, only two contestants remain to create their signature blade, using any material and techniques they prefer. The twist for this round is that while the contestants are still able to make weapons, they are required to switch forges, adding an extra challenge to their crafting process. Beyond their skills and knowledge, they must be able to showcase their ability to adapt and improvise in a different workspace and with new tools.

It's a race against time as they work, bringing out their best skills and techniques. The judges closely monitor every stage of the process, from the initial shaping to finishing to make the final decision about each blade. The contestants must also balance their focus on creating an exceptional blade while navigating the challenge of adapting to a new workspace.

Finally, the judges examine every detail of both blades, testing how each weapon feels and performs, highlighting the exceptional craftsmanship of the makers, before making their final decisions. Who will come out on top, and whose weapon failed to make the cut? Tune in to "Flip the Forge" to find out and witness the creation of these beautiful and dangerous weapons.