In a forging competition, contestants are tasked with creating signature blades within specific parameters. They have access to various types of steel for their blades. The competition involves forging, welding, grinding, and heat treating the blades. After the initial round, the blades are tested by striking them against a weight plate. One blade withstands the test, another breaks, and the creator of the broken blade is eliminated from the competition.
1. The competition involves forging blades within a three-hour time frame.
2. Contestants must combine hardenable steel and mild steel to forge a blade within specified parameters.
3. Blade length must be between 11 and 14 inches, with an overall length not exceeding 22 inches.
4. Materials used include various types of steel, and contestants choose based on hardness and flexibility requirements.
5. The forging process involves stacking and welding steel pieces quickly.
6. Clean steel is crucial for successful forged welds.
7. Quenching is part of the process to harden the blades.
8. Some contestants faced challenges with warping during quenching.
9. Blades undergo strength and durability testing by striking them against a weight plate.
10. Catastrophic failure occurred for one contestant due to a snapped Tang in the handle.
11. The contestant with a successful blade advances in the competition.