forged in fire cutting deeper throwing weapons

With its wave-like curved blade, the Moro Kris is one of the most distinctive blades in history. In this episode, the bladesmiths must forge the Moro Kris, a weapon used so effectively by Filipino fighters in the Philippine–American War that it led directly to the invention of the Colt 1911 pistol-one of the most famous firearms in the world. It was also used differently, with more of a thrusting motion than a slashing motion. The traditional rapier blade is longer (some over 40 inches in length), lighter (typically weighing between 2 and 3 lbs) and much narrower (typically ¾ inches) than its medieval predecessors.

The word “rapier” is believed to come from the Spanish term “espada ropera” or “sword of the robes.” It was meant to be worn with civilian clothing, and not armor.

This led to an opening in the market for a lighter, faster sword, and the Rapier stepped in to fill it. As suits of armor declined in popularity, the need for heavy, armor-piercing weapons also declined. These new guns made heavy suits of armor-like those worn by knights-less effective and a cumbersome liability. Watch now.Īccording to, the rise of the Elizabethan Rapier can be traced to the invention of early personal firearms. Two finalists head to their home forges to make one of history’s most notorious weapons, the rapier, a sharply pointed sword that can kill with just one thrust. It was designed to be used with brute force rather than precision. They could be wielded from horseback or in hand-to-hand combat and with one or two hands.

Most examples of this type of weapon (depending on the century) had blades typically 28-31 inches in length, with handles that eventually measured around 6 inches as the weapon evolved through the years. Its reputation as a weapon of choice for kings, and the toughest knights and noblemen alike, has also made it one of the more romanticized weapons in history. Watch now.ĭeveloped during High Middle Ages (from 1000 to 1300 A.D.), the Arming Sword, also known as the Knightly Sword and the Crusader Sword among other names, is the most classic of sword styles. The remaining two bladesmiths head home with just five days to forge the legendary Crusader Sword. The forge heats up as our four bladesmiths struggle create a special Japanese hardening technique on their signature blades.

Forged in fire cutting deeper throwing weapons