How many seasons and episodes does Forged in Fire have?
The series has aired 11 seasons with 240 episodes as of late 2024. It has expanded over the years with special tournaments and spin‑offs.
What is the format of the competition?
Four bladesmiths start with a design phase, then forge a blade, attach a handle, and undergo functional tests. The two best advance to a final round recreating a historical weapon.
How long does each episode run?
Episodes are roughly 42 minutes long, covering all three rounds and judge commentary.
Who judges the blades?
A panel of three experts, including J. Neilson, David Baker, and Doug Marcaida (sometimes joined by Ben Abbott), evaluates craftsmanship, design, and functionality.
What prizes do contestants win?
The champion receives $10,000 and the title of Forged in Fire Champion. Winning blades are displayed on the Winners Wall and can be acquired by collectors.
Where is the show filmed?
The series is filmed in a purpose‑built studio in Brooklyn, New York, equipped with forges, grinders, and safety gear.
What materials can contestants use?
Contestants are given a set of steel pieces and sometimes scrap metal. They must use these to create their blades within the allotted time.
How are the blades tested?
Judges subject blades to chopping ropes, cutting ice, slicing bone, and striking metal pipes to gauge sharpness, durability, and overall performance.
Is there any safety concern on the show?
Yes, medical staff and safety protocols are in place to handle heat, metal splinters, and potential injuries during forging.
How can a bladesmith audition for the show?
Prospective contestants submit a video of a blade they’ve forged, attend interviews, and pass background checks. Auditions are announced on the show’s website and social media.
What happens after a contestant is eliminated?
Eliminated smiths return their blades to the judges. Their metal is either recycled or returned for future use, ensuring no waste.
Can contestants reuse blades from past seasons?
Sometimes former champions return for special tournaments, but during regular episodes all blades must be freshly forged.
Does the show feature any special themed challenges?
Yes, the show hosts themed episodes like medieval swords, Japanese katanas, and American frontier weapons, adding variety to the competition.
Is there a spin‑off series related to Forged in Fire?
Yes, 'Forged in Fire: Knife or Death' focuses on knife design, while 'Forged in Fire: Beat the Judges' pits former champions against a judge.
How much time do smiths have for each round?
The first round gives 10 minutes for design and three hours for forging; the second round adds two more hours to attach handles and refine, and the final round allows four days for the historical replica.
Do contestants work alone in the Forge?
Each competitor works at a dedicated worktable, but they may collaborate during the final round if invited by the judges.
Are the weapons made in the show functional?
Yes, functional testing is integral to judging. Blades must perform in real‑world tests and survive without catastrophic failure.
Can viewers watch the show on streaming platforms?
Episodes are available on History, Discovery+, Netflix, and Hulu, depending on season and region.
What is the role of the host?
The host introduces challenges, explains criteria, and reports results after each round, while keeping the audience engaged.
What is the typical reaction of judges after a blade fails?
If a blade fails catastrophically, it is immediately disqualified and the smith is eliminated, ensuring safety and fairness.